Travel makes you modest. It helps you realize what a small place you occupy in this world. Sometimes it helps you see how fortunate you are and occasionally you see how much better life can be.
I’m home now from an adventure and will start sharing some stories and pictures as soon as I can!
Enjoy this day, friends, and be safe out there.
You’ve likely seen dragonflies but did you know they symbolize transformation and self realization? They are said to help us on the path of discovery and enlightenment.
I have also read that when you’re among dragonflies you’re in the company of angels. If that’s the case, a chorus of angels surrounded me for much of my hike Sunday.
Dozens, if not hundreds of dragonflies flitted in and out of my path, amongst the wildflowers and weeds along the lake shore.
In this world, there are about 5,000 species of dragonflies. In Ohio, we have documented 165. On Sunday, I saw several although I cannot name them for you. I can tell you that I very much enjoyed standing on the trail watching these mysterious creatures dance in the sunlight.
With some patience, I was able to capture a handful of pictures and am grateful for each one.
It’s a comforting idea that these colorful insects with their oddly shaped bodies and translucent wings represent more than we can see and that we are among angels.
If nothing else, they give me the feeling and even the hope that I’m on the right path.
I’m fortunate to work for a company that encourages community involvement among employees. Last week, my department volunteered at an organization that serves local senior citizens. Here I met two very sweet ladies who I’m still thinking about days later.
I stopped by yesterday to drop off some prizes for bingo and Christmas cards for the ladies. One of them was there, providing opportunity to sit and visit a while.
She’s 96 and still lives alone. She cleans her home, orders her own medicine and is quite proud of her independence. Her grown children help with her laundry but she shakes her head and frowns when she admits they don’t want her going to the basement anymore.
Someone else cuts the grass now. She stopped gardening two years ago but has no intention of slowing down in any other way.
When asked her secret to a long life, she said that staying active and social has kept her going. She also advised living below your means and saving as much as possible. She doesn’t have a large income but says she doesn’t have to worry.
First of all, she is the sweetest lady and I was happy to talk with her. More importantly, she seemed happy to have someone to listen. It took no effort to sit there for a few minutes and show interest in what she had to say. And yet, I walked away with a wealth of wisdom and the feeling that the conversation had made a difference to us both.
It was one of the most positive human interactions I’ve had in a long time and I’m grateful for it. Older folks have wisdom to share and can benefit from having someone to talk with. Never discount the value of a friendly conversation.
Have a nice day, friends. Be good to one another.
It’s a hard lesson and one that life seems to teach me repeatedly. In case no one has told you, I will say it today.
You deserve better.
Treat yourself like a priority, especially when no one else does. If someone truly wants you in their life, they won’t make you feel like you’re last on their list.
That’s all. Now go do something kind for yourself. And no matter what, enjoy your day!
“Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love.” –Sitting Bull
This image is from my four mile hike in the Hocking Hills last night. It was perfect hiking weather and a glorious day to celebrate the beginning of spring.
The Hocking Hills region is close to where I live and I know it reasonably well. I reference hiking here a good bit but wonder if anyone is interested in knowing more about the area and things to do here. If so, I’ll work on some observations to share here.
Make the Journey Fun 