“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” Maya Angelou

This photo brings back a wonderful memory. Paul and often took little road trips to get into some natural spots and enjoy God’s beautiful creation. It’s remarkable how many of those spots exist. You don’t even have to travel very far from home. The picture was taken on the river’s edge as a class of wannabe sailors from ages five and up were learning to sail alone in a small boat. They were guided by an experienced sailor who shouted directions to them. We watched as the boats maneuvered in a circle creating their own mini regatta.

Eventually it was time to bring their crafts back to shore. Paul began painting the scene before they landed, but I got a glimpse of each one as they docked. What a delight to see these precious little ones learning this skill at such a young age. The experience got me thinking about how we don’t always see the ordinary as anything but ordinary. When we take the time to enjoy the moment, it becomes a memory worth hanging on to. The children were eager to see Paul’s painting and struck up a conversation with him. They asked him questions and, of course, Paul was eager to share his own past experiences serving as crew for some C Class boats when he was a young lad.

I don’t know if it’s because I’m getting older, but it seems that these little memories have taken on new meaning for me. Perhaps because I have more time to reminisce or maybe the events have been deeply carved into my mind. Cherish each moment that God gives you. Life is quite short when you think about it. The span of 80 years or more seems immense when you’re five years old. The growing up years seem to last for an eternity. Once you reach those ancient years, your perception changes. You want to savor every last moment of your existence. In doing so, we might forget about what lies ahead in eternity.

This I have learned in my aging. We spend the majority of our living in the busyness of each day. We often forget the end result. We become so wrapped up in the activity that we lose track of what’s really important. Take time to breathe – to stop and enjoy the moments, the treasures and blessings that God has laid at your feet. You may be surprised at how much more important these things are. Take time to live in the moment. You will find great joy in it.

“I am installed in a fairylike place. I do not know where to poke my head; everything is superb, and I would like to do everything, so I use up and squander lots of color, for there are trials to be made.” Claude Monet