Image of Friendship

"A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you."

Elbert Hubbard

Two women sat on a bench, barely speaking. They were spending time together in loving silence. They had been friends for so long, it seemed thoughts were shared without any need for conversations. An animated child would skip by, and the two women watched the little tike and then with pure joy, exchanged smiles and laughter.

As times change, men are experiencing deeper relationships, and the experience of bonding sets a significant example for others. When time is taken to experience one other, whether male or female or a mix, blessings and lessons are bountiful. Books can be best friends, but there is nothing like a hug from a favorite human!

The image of friendship being like a sheltering tree speaks volumes. It sees us through seasons of life, endures troubling weather, and although colorful, parts are eventually shed. Tree roots are very deep and persistently share with neighboring trees. When we look back over our life, we may see a forest of friendships.

                      

Retaining Sunshine

"Know what you want to do, hold the thought firmly,

and do every day what should be done, and every

sunset will see you that much nearer the goal."

Elbert Hubbard

Each morning I watch the sun come up, absorbing as much light as I can.  Sun beams chase my sadness away and warms my empty spaces.  In the evening while I watch the sun sink down into the horizon, I make a list of the good that unfolded during the day.

Retaining as much sunshine as I can, I create ideas to brighten my day. How can I contribute goodness out into the world? What can I do to make a difference now in the moment?  The action and follow through decide the intensity of my day.

Simply setting the intention of being a good human can impact my routine.  It doesn't really matter what I do as much as how I sincerely extend goodness. No matter the task at hand, if I exert best effort with kindness, I walk with light into the darkness.

 

Silence

 

"He who does not understand your silence

will probably not understand your words."

Elbert Hubbard

There is silence today.  I guess vibrations have lowered to a regular frequency relieving static annoyances.  Perhaps, silence simply follows greater activity and our emotions can settle back into a regular level.  Whatever the reason, silence is prevalent today.

As days stretch through the years, silence becomes a resident replacing distractions that once prevailed. Perhaps, silence becomes an additional friend of kindness without expectations or demands.  It is a presence that accompanies us buffering outside noise.

The shreds of loose ends from holiday remembrances can carefully be swept away for yet again another year.  The adjustment is made to surroundings rather plain no longer twinkling nor sparkling. A favorite chair awaits my return as I gather a candle, journal, and the last glass of good cheer. Silence surrounds me, bracing for the New Year.