Monday, March 15, 2021

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”                                              Psalm 118:24

Twice a month I take a two-hour road trip with a friend to an agility lesson with our dogs. We are both avid competitors of this sport and along with three other people, hone our skills with a few hours of instruction and fun. The competitions have been few, many being canceled on account COVID, but we continue to train and find our little bubble works for us, is safe, and gives us the opportunity to get out of the house to refresh our spirits as well as exercise our dogs (and lifting their spirits too). The joy I see in them, brings me joy in providing this excursion.

While spending that time in our vehicle, which could quickly become boring, I look across the landscape and give a more thoughtful view of what I’m taking in. The beauty of our ridges and valleys, snow on the ground, and the bright blue skies that remind me to appreciate our environment and thank God for what we are blessed to enjoy. Even on bleak cold days when the the clouds envelope us and the sun retreats, I try to remember to praise God.

If anything has come out of this time during this pandemic and our current troubling days, it has been to be more mindful of the day, the moment, and give thanks. Take a moment to see what is around you and thank God for everything, the good and the bad. I have enjoyed the snowy days and beauty of seeing the sunshine on the crystals to paint a beautiful picture outside my window. To breath in the cold air on walks that stimulate my body and brain. Even the monotonous days that seem long and endless during this pandemic.

Thank you, God, for all of nature, for friendships that we can maintain with a phone call, a walk or a note. Be there to remind us to take an opportunity to say a kind word or help a neighbor. We need you now and everyday and rejoice in your constant presence and Love. Amen

Brenda Palmgren