TODAY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR ..........

Sally, what a lovely perspective you have about Mother Teresa. I have been so sad for the pain she must have endured while she questioned her beliefs.  But it's true that, when you think about it, someone who worked so diligently and still had doubts does provide comfort to those of us who have found ourselves in doubt when our faith is challenged.  Today I am grateful for your point of view.
 
Betty, we didn't need our umbrellas, but the blessed rain dried and cooled the air so we had an absolutely beautiful day to rejoice in.  How wonderful it was to be outside enjoying our Creator's Earth after weeks of being locked inside relying on air conditioning for relief and artificial breezes manufactured by ceiling fans!  We in the South still have plenty of hot summer ahead but the little tease of autumn encouraged us that "this too shall pass."  Thank you for continuing to remember the victims of Katrina.  We will mark the second anniversary of the landfall of the storm on Wednesday and it would amaze most people to see how much work still lies ahead of the people who are trying to rebuild their lives.
 
Lori, how wonderful your weekend sounds!  It sounds like your family found the perfect recipe for how to spend time off.  Going back to work isn't fun, is it, but having been off work for about three months now, I can tell you that those work days give us a better appreciation for the off days!  Hope you have a rewarding work week as you look forward to another fantastic weekend.
 
Peace to each and all of you!
Lolly
 
 

Today I am grateful that work went very well, despite it being a very busy day.

Things I'm Grateful For - Updated Daily. Now updated to the new Mk II version.

Today I'm grateful for the sound of cicadas outside my window.  That sound reminds me of the more carefree summers of childhood, for some reason. 
 
I can't hear anything else, like traffic noise, for example, because they're so loud tonight.  I love it! 
 
Lori

To truly listen is to perfect one's own virtue.

Fantastic! Today I am grateful that I have the whole day off work, and a list of things to get done.

Things I'm Grateful For - Updated Daily. Now updated to the new Mk II version.

Today I am grateful for seeing the beginning of the lunar eclipse, a beautiful sight to watch! I am also grateful that the electricity is back on (we were in the upper 90's yesterday). The body aches, but the tree has been cut up, debris bagged and yard cleaned up. There is now more firewood for winter.

Sally,When I read your post about Mother Theresa, I felt like someone had read my mind. I am so glad they didn't destroy her letters. It is so difficult for people to honestly admit they have doubts and questions about God. That has been real gift to me in doing spiritual companioning/direction. So often externally, I was convinced that a certain individual really really had it all together. When asked if I would companion them on their spiritual journey, I found they were no different than me, with all my doubts, confusion, mistakes, etc.. Thank you for bringing it up. It is something we ALL struggle with.

Lori,Your weekend sounds perfect. Having been "downsized" 5 months ago, I understand Lolly's point about the work week helping to give the time off a much sweeter taste.. Isn't it amazing how little sounds like your cicadas can bring back so many good memories?

PAUSE--I just went back outside to see the Lunar Eclipse. The moon is now almost half coveredNature is such a beautiful gift.

Lolly, although I don't live in the South we too, are still in the midst of heat. For all who have a chance to watch or tape--I saw an ad on TV that Opera is going to do a special on Wednesday --Two years after Katrina. We all need to be reminded of how little has been done and ask WHY people are still living in such devastation in this country?? Lolly, knowing that your family is in the midst of this will make me watch more closely. May we never forget those suffering in our world family.

Solomon, I am glad your day at work went well. Sometimes the busiest days are the best. Please tell us more about your new dog.

Richard, You are right, each breath we take is gift. Thank you for reminding us.

Yesterday is gone forever.Tomorrow may not come. Live Fully each moment today. Look for Good Things that Happen to you Every Day.

And Chicken Little said --"The Moon is Gone!!The Moon Is GONE!!And so the Lunar Eclipse continues

Yesterday is gone forever.Tomorrow may not come. Live Fully each moment today. Look for Good Things that Happen to you Every Day.

TODAY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR the sunlight which shines through my window; and everywhere, for that matter.

Betty, I'm reminded of the time when I once saw the moon eclipse. We had one recently, but it was cloudy and I missed it. I had to make do with someone else's photos.
 
The path of the moon goes right in front of the house and strangely, I was woken at several points during it's path in the early hours, as if it wanted me to see it (which of course I did)A magical sight and one I will never forget.   J

Love is the only way

The eclipse this morning was amazing.  It was also really moving to see so many of my neighbors out watching it.  We hardly speak with each other the rest of the time, and go about our own little busy lives.  But we were all brought together for a common purpose at 4:50 a.m.!  I'm grateful I got to see it.  (I'm really tired now, because I got up so early, but that's OK, it was worth it!). 
 
Lori

To truly listen is to perfect one's own virtue.

TODAY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR the breeze which brings the sweet aromas of vegetation and mustiness of the earth.

Today I am very grateful that 33 years ago our third son was born. Although out of necessity, it could only be a very short visit, I am also very grateful that I got to see him today. He has been a real gift of the Holy One to me.

Yesterday is gone forever.Tomorrow may not come. Live Fully each moment today. Look for Good Things that Happen to you Every Day.

TODAY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR the stillness

I am grateful for a gorgeous, cool and sunny day that made walking about the neighborhood grocery shopping a pleasure.
 
Edda

Peace and joy!

I am grateful that today my Mother celebrated her 80th birthday and is heathly & happy. She is the best Mother anyone could ever wish for. 
 
  Happy Birthday, Mom!!

With Hope each of us can have a life with Peace, Faith and Love.

Vicky, tell your mother Happy Birthday for me! Eighty years is something to celebrate and be grateful for!
 
Love,  Edda

Peace and joy!

TODAY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR the sunlight burning off the morning mist playing amongst the branches of the hemlock.

Vicky, What a very special tribute to your mother

She is the best Mother anyone could ever wish for.

. Please tell her a belated Happy Birthday. (Although when one reaches 80 and is healthy and happy, they definitely should be allowed to celebrate for much more than just one day.

Yesterday is gone forever.Tomorrow may not come. Live Fully each moment today. Look for Good Things that Happen to you Every Day.

It has been a year since I joined the candle forum, as Richard reminded me. I am grateful for the privilege to be part of it, and for being able to share the joys and sorrows of so many wonderfully caring and loving people.
 
Edda

Peace and joy!

Dear Edda,
 
And we are grateful that you joined!
 
Today I am grateful for the company of a very dear friend.  J

Love is the only way

Thank you, Jude!
 
Love,  Edda

Peace and joy!