The Sounds of Silence {SOL 12.13.16}

I prefer silence....

no TV,
no music,
no noise at all

other than the sounds of

the dryer firing up,
the dog snoring,
the click of the timer that turns on the lamp in the hall

or

the crunch of the snow,
the whir of the dishwasher,
the flutter of the birds meeting at the feeder

or

the tick of the clock,
the rocking of my chair,
the rumble my neighbor's car engine.

For if I had the TV on or music playing,
I would miss this symphony
that I call silence.

Constant Celebration

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could walk around in a constant state of thankfulness and celebration? To notice and appreciate the many, many joys in our lives, both big and small?

I'm trying to make an effort to live more this way.

(Some times, it is not easy.)

But I've found that the more I do it, the easier it becomes. I've also found that the more I celebrate, the more things I have to celebrate. I've also noticed that I'm a much happier person when I do this.

           Hmmm....

Here are some of my {many} celebrations this week:

* My son called me from college just to talk

     * Friends who trust me with their words

* The whisper that tells me my time in my comfort zone has come to an end

     * Unexpected opportunity

* Sweet raspberries

     * Writing by the light of the Christmas tree

* Hearing the furnace kick on in the morning, knowing I will wake to warmth

     * A book recommendation from a friend

* A fire in the fireplace

     * Birds that gather on the bird feeder outside the window

* Warm cinnamon bread baking in the oven, making the house smell heavenly

     * A smile from a student

Being in a constant state of celebration and thankfulness is also about being mindful. In this crazy month of December, when we zip from one event to another, I hope you will take a minute to stop and celebrate all of your blessings.

It will literally change your life.