Tonight, I decided to take a walk and enjoy the warm, Spring air. Not only did I need to get out of my wreck of an apartment, but my doctor's voice continually echoed in my mind reminding me that it was imperative that I participate in some form of exercise or the consequences could be dire (Ooooo!). But that is not the reminder I speak of because I, frankly, don't care much for doctors or their pronouncements - maybe that's a topic for another time. :)
The night air was warm and the breeze gentle as I started out. I was not alone in my decision to take advantage of this opportunity, as many were out and about. People walking their dogs, couples holding hands and laughing, and families on their porches, chatting quietly. What an absolutely beautiful evening!
About a third of the way into my walk, it began to rain. Gently, at first. The breeze blew more fully and the rain came harder. For a short time, I wondered: "Should I turn back or continue. I determined that in either turning back or continuing on, I was sure to get soaked. So, I continued on and the rain began to abate, alternating from wet to not quite so wet.
As I rounded the corner for my return trip, a brisk breeze made its presence known and it carried with it a scent of earth, of wood, and of life. I stopped and breathed it in. A fragrance more intoxicating and invigorating than any man-made scent could ever hope to be. As it filled my lungs, I breathed even more deeply and felt its essence flow through me; waves of warmth and a tingling sensation ran through me. I saw the trees with new buds, ready to burst open. It filled my memory of days long past, when all that ever mattered was a walk in the woods, climbing a tree, or a few moments by a lake. A lazy stroll on a sunny day with no particular destination in mind.
My reminder on this Easter Saturday was how new life springs forth even after the most dogged and persistent winter. So many people wondered if this past Winter would ever end. And now, on this evening, the reminder that all things have their time. The scent that breeze carried was that of Mother Earth and a Creator's Love and the knowledge that one should always look to those things which are ever before us and remember to appreciate each day for its unique beauty. To coin a phrase: "To everything there is a Season..." Be thankful for the things and people that are here today. Who knows what tomorrow will bring?
