From the new day…

On the other end of the spectrum, from anticipation and excitement, are the emotions related to conclusion. When conclusion involves saying goodbye, tears are often part of the experience, especially with Kate and me.  And so, as the last day of our wonderful visit wound down, and we neared the time for Kate and her family to return to Colorado, tears were appearing.  From my perch on a rock in the back garden, I watched the children run laps around the field and when they were done and they plopped down breathlessly beside me, my tears could be restrained no longer. I hated to see this time end and know that months or even a year may go by before I see them again. Just then, the rest of the family came up behind us and said “Look, it’s a hummingbird!” At first I disagreed through my tears saying it was a bee, but as a clearer focus returned, I could see the tiny beak of a hummingbird baby enjoying the nectar of the butterfly bush. How magical was this moment! We all became still…even the kids… and watched in amazement at the size and movement of this tiny creature…well, until Lo’s three year old enthusiasm caused its quick exit.

By then however, he had cast his spell upon us and served his purpose. I do believe that this baby ruby throated charmer arrived in time to help us all better cope with the parting moment we were soon to face. Animal totems offer spiritual guidance and deliver messages if we are open to receiving them.

Among all the bird totems it is likely the Hummingbird is the most magical. They bring a smile to our face while watching their unique movement. Hummingbird’s ability to hover in one spot teaches us how to be still and focused no matter how active we are. When the hummingbird totem visits we are reminded to appreciate the sweetness life offers. We have all heard the saying "Stop to Smell the Roses" and understand this means to slow down and enjoy life. The hummingbird teaches a similar lesson asking us to bury our noses more deeply and inhale the fragrant nectar. Life offers much joy and sweetness if we take the time to breathe it in.

http://Healing.about.com/od/animaltotems

And so it was. The sweetness of this week was breathed in by all and the scent of the children, which lingers in my house, is fragrant nectar that heals the heart.

Giving thanks for the blessing of this day…

From the new day...

The list was not done. I still had much to do to have everything perfect for my special visitors who would be arriving around 5:00 this evening. But first I needed to sit in the shade of the maple tree, with chores temporarily put aside, and be in the moment of pure happiness and gratitude.  It’s so easy to keep moving and doing, but allowing ourselves time to feel what is in our heart, is the most significant part of our journey on this earth.

My heart was overwhelmed by emotions caused by the anticipation of seeing my daughter and her family who had not been back to Pennsylvania for 2 years. I couldn’t wait to see Kate, Eric and their 4 children and give hugs to all. I savored this anticipation as I sat in my yard and expressed silent prayers of thanks. When the moment arrived it was more perfect than I could have imagined. Even the little guys who are 3 and 2 and who had just woken up from naps in the car, ran to me and let me lift them in my arms and hug and kiss them and tell them I love them.

It was a perfect gathering of family. Truth be told, it really didn’t matter to anyone that I had cut the grass today or mopped the floor or washed the windows. Those details were irrelevant. What was most important was how we felt just being together and experiencing the joy of heart connections, the continuity of life and the serendipitous lessons that found their way into our world.

As we sat outside, eight year old Elika quickly picked out a rock in my garden to sit upon saying she was going to meditate there. She said it was full moon meditation tonight. I looked at her mom in amazement and asked if she knew that tonight really was the full moon meditation which I attend each month but of course missed this month for obvious reasons.

Kate was also amazed but said Elika remembers everything and maybe she had heard a conversation about this. I didn’t know Elika knew anything about meditation and yet she was serious in her intent to have this happen and even encouraged group participation.

 As the moon rose in the sky casting its' light upon us, we gathered in a semi-circle, my 2 daughters, 3 grandchildren and myself, and recited The Great Invocation, followed by a short period of meditation. I don’t know how this even came to be, it certainly wasn't on "the list", but the fact that it did for even a brief moment was a true gift and a sign that our children are the light of the future. How quickly the torch passes to another generation. On this night of my journey, I was touched by their light, their innocent goodness, and their sincere hearts. On this night I was blessed with love.

 Giving thanks for the blessing of this day…