by Ron Cook
As humans we are born with a conscience. It is encouraged or tested by the parents we inherit. By the age of five we have developed an inner system that protects us by forming impressions about people and objects which help us to survive. This is innate. This system judges how we respond to our world. It helps us to avoid what we detect as unpleasant and causes us to embrace what is good.
A dear friend wrote this poem which illustrates how she created a way to be encouraged daily to see the world that she loves:
S’il Vous Plait*
By Jeanine Renee
I made a window where there was none –
To watch the birds in the morning
I opened a door once nailed shut –
For my soul to come and go
I invited music
I invited beauty
I invited love
We danced on the threshold…
Close enough to make a hasty retreat –
In case I failed them
When I awoke this morning
There waiting for me –
Watching the birds
Gratitude will want the good that is in all of us, even in the worst of us. To flower and to grow. Gratitude helps us to listen to what is supporting us; what is encouraging us; what is urging us; what is alive in us.
This week while I was doing my laundry, I went across the street to a community free store over the railroad tracks. When I drove up, I spotted a perfect Lazy Boy recliner for my new apartment. I left a note that explained who I am, where I work, and my address. Later that evening I borrowed my daughter’s truck, and we went to pick up the chair. When we arrived at the “free shack” the chair was GONE. I was disappointed because it was such a perfect “man-chair”, and the colors were great for my little abode; these colors reminded me of my mother who passed away ten years ago. I took a
deep breath and let this go. Someone else must have needed it more than I. I took my daughter home and drove back to my apartment. Guess what was sitting on my front porch??!! You are right … the chair! Someone anonymously took it upon themselves to bring it to my home!
I am so gratefully full of gratitude!
Jeanine once again captures this gratitude in her next poem…
Samaritan*
Unforeseen, you appeared like an outpost in the wilderness.
With quiet compassion, you walked before me,
Believing in the journey and this resolute traveler.
Unobtrusively, you cleared obstacles,
Giving solitude, encouragement, kindness, warmth.
All I have to offer you in return is to call you friend.
*S’il Vous Plait, and Samaritan, used with permission from the author, Jeanine Renee.
You can order your copy of Jeanine’s book, Railwalker, at: http://Jeaninerenee.bandcamp.com.
The Photo of the waves was sent to me by my brother, Rodger the Artful Dodger, whose home survived hurricane Milton in Venice, Florida. He is grateful that the storm wasn’t worse.
