While still in January, can we take a big look at the year just past, viewing 2019 as a good book just finished? Among all the happenings, was there a highlight to savor?  A time of feeling very much alive, or very much loved? One pictorial moment that stands out, signaling that this earth is a good – in fact a wondrous place to be?

Often, a story will be told triggering one of your own. Perhaps a shared memory, here, will do that for you today:

Many years back (my tumultuous years between 18-35 now over) while still living in Boise, I took a walk across the Ann Morrison Park very early in the morning. No one was about except for a human bundle under a bush, someone not yet ready to embrace the light. Birds were on the move accompanied by the sound of their own song. Holy ground it seemed. Shoes removed, I relished the morning dew, which grass blades wore as crowns. It was a lazy walk, filled with contemplation. That is, until it was rudely interrupted.

Inadvertently, I had wandered into the cross pattern of a forceful sprinkling system. The reward for my sudden mad dash was a blast of cold water. Full-bodied. With clothes dripping the thrill of youth had returned.

During those morning moments the gift of life and limber limb, wrapped in sunlight and earthen splendor brought this “mid-life” person of serious soul into an hour of carefree living.

The young child who once rode her bicycle with random recklessness had reappeared. And time stood still. Laughter. Alone with the Creator among His works, yet with a sense of the whole world being with me.

Sweet summer weather had enfolded me into its grip, granting new strength to “shoulder my pack,” and again face realities, which in previous months had seemed to stretch this heart beyond its boundaries. This was one tiny reprieve, yet more healing than a doctor’s potion. And it was free.

I think of that now, in Lake Havasu’s January, sunny and warm. A walk in the park finds our Winter Fellows talking about deep snow “back home.”

Christmas memories behind us and packages—well, some wondrous and some returned. But, just enough Christmas cheer to get us going, headed into another year.

But, wait. Let’s think about some of the gifts which are free, with us year after year. With or without funds the season can be seen with some glory by taking time to reflect on what might be called universal toys:

A nap in a sunny window, smells of earth’s offerings blended in a skillet. Memories lifted from life’s treasure chest . . . nudges and lick-kisses from faithful pets . . . sunset with orchestra music behind it . . . with our lake afire with color.

Sounds with which to keep one’s self company, such as singing, humming, whistling; the wonder of a warm bath with music … even with candlelight?  A good novel devoured under warm covers; backrubs … smiles … a hug; the voice of a friend; quiet time, alone with God. Perhaps during our winters, icicles forming drip by drip in front of a favorite window; branches waving their “hello” with highly balanced snow. 

This list is just a beginning. The human mind is powerfully creative. Without cost it is possible to give a gift of yourself simply by sharing at just the right moment, a lively experience, one listeners can enter into vicariously. Momentarily you loan them your legs, your voice, your heart. Could one ever set a price on the gift of human communication?  The joy of making another laugh?  The touch of a hand on a lonely back?  The pleasure of watching a child stay upright while learning to walk?

Today, blue skies and abundant sun, I sit at my computer wishing I were outside. Yet, must stay put to cogitate, here. Then the phone rings. It’s the voice from a friend, “Come on over, I am in the mood for reminiscing.”

Now, this is true gift!  I waste no time saying, “I’ll be right there!” Here is a gift that is eternal!

Could we ponder ways that could lift another’s day, bringing joy to them . . . recalling special times together . . . creating moments with others that will last for memories later?

May God be with you as you make this an unforgettable January!  Yikes! It’s February—already! And my Christmas tree is still up! Time to shake a leg and get a move on!

As Ecclesiastes 3: 1-9, assures us, “Everything has its time.”