Sent to me through the magic of email from a friend of mine who answers to the name of Bart, was a series of beautiful rural pictures that were accompanied by what I know in my heart are similar to the thoughts that seep through my mind when I sit, early morn, on the front porch of my son’s family farm. Here, in part, are some of those thoughts.
“The house is bathed by the rising sun. It offers tranquil shade in the evening on the veranda. Sometimes we underestimate the good things we have, chasing after the mirages of false treasures.
“We often see people letting go of their children, their families, their spouses, their friends, their professions, their knowledge – accumulated over many years, their good health, and the good things in life. Don’t throw out so freely things which were nourished with so much care and effort.
“Look around, appreciate what you have. Your home, your loved ones, friends on whom you can really count, the knowledge you have gained, your good health. And all the beautiful things in life, they are truly your most precious treasures. We can no longer shower kindness on those we love, after they have died.
“It is useless to want to re-do the work that we may have done negligently. It’s best to appreciate and do things well now. Don’t let your problems and concerns degenerate into feelings of sadness and anxiety. Provide yourself with the courage needed to be certain of victory in the struggle of life.
“We are all imperfect. Always praise and value your family, do all you can to make it even better. Always praise and value your co-workers. See what you can do to improve your environment.
“Instead of isolating yourself, because of weakness or failure, seek to invest in true and constructive friendship in your life. Strengthen your self-esteem in dealing with daily problems.”
No better words could ever express my roving thoughts as I early morning sit on the rural route porch, sipping a coffee, listening to the awaking birds singing and watching the mist shrouds lift as the sun rises, sparkling the droplets of heavy dew, as though the lawn was covered with the richness of diamonds.
And it truly is. No better way could the richness of life be expressed than to watch an early morning sunrise at the beginning of the haying season in rural route southern Ontario. My wish for you, in the luxury of moments like this, is love, contentment and happiness – always.
Take care, ’cause we care.
barrie@barriehopkins.ca
519-843-4544