The Best Remedy

The best remedy for those who are

afraid, lonely, or unhappy

is to go outside,

somewhere they can be quite alone

with the heavens, nature, and God.

Because only then does one feel

that all is as it should be and

that God wishes to see people

happy amidst the simple

beauty of nature.

Anne Frank

1929 ~ 1945

A storm passed through last night, bringing thunder, lightning, and plentiful rain.  It also brought Trudy our Tuxedo cat and Hannah our Golden Retriever into my bedroom.  I felt like Noah in the Ark!  It is cloudy today, but the temperatures have dropped considerably.   Much to my liking, it is now sweatshirt or sweater weather.

Seasons change just like our lives, and it is vitally important that we make healthy choices along the way.  Transitioning is a given no matter what our age or circumstances and the more gracefully we flow with the ebbs and tides, the better off we will be. 

When we find lack in our life, we can feel better by reaching out to others.  By giving instead of receiving, our sense of purpose, self-esteem, and attitude begin to soar.  Schools, nursing homes, and hospitals easily embrace volunteers who can sing, or read, or bring in a trained pet, or just to visit.  A local library may be needing help or perhaps a new mother could use a little encouragement.   Bring your neighbor some muffins or cookies or offer a ride to a community event.  The opportunities are endless, and when we feel compassion, we begin to feel connected again. 

To receive everything,

one must open

one's hands and give.

Taisen Deshimaru

Fall is a perfect time to meet friends at a park or take a neighbor on a walk.  Everything in nature will reach out to us and the presence of God in all things will fill us with hope, love and praise.