“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”
~ Marcel Proust (paraphrased)
Christmas carols playing softly, housework done and order restored, I open the front door to let Maya out, hoping she goes about her business quickly. It’s so cold out there.
I stand on the front step as she sniffs around looking for the perfect spot; my glance lands on the calendula blossoms in my front flower bed. Frozen, bowing slightly under the weight of snow, they’re still brilliant in their colour.
After what feels like a frozen forever Maya turns toward me. I encourage her to make quick tracks: “Let’s go! Treat!”.
I give Maya her reward and grab the kitchen scissors thinking I’ll hide out in my woman cave and work on a few more calendula photos for the rest of the morning. I snip a couple of stems and bring them indoors where they quickly thaw and grow limp. I try different things with them but they’re really not much good for anything in this soggy, floppy state.
Unless.
So I try something different, something whimsical, and it seems to work in a crazy sort of way: upside down, off kilter, convoluted, the way this week feels. I decide to embrace it.
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Later, news of the sudden passing of a former coworker’s husband–the second death I’ve received news of on this day–and a reminder of how everything can change in an instant.
Something new, although off kilter, is a way learn and embrace possibilities.
So sorry to hear of your sad news. Life is fragile.
Yes Celine! I don’t especially like feeling off kilter but, you’re right, that’s where the possibilities are to be found.
My condolences on your very sad news, Linda. Yes, life changes in an instant. Blessings to your loved ones and their families.
Yes, in a second life can change. I am sorry.