"Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.” – Henry Ward Beecher
This past weekend I enjoyed a benefit bike event in Amish Country. This is my tenth year doing the ride and was so excited since missing last year due to my chemo schedule.
Oh, yeah - bells, whistles, streamers, and parades! My last chemo was one year ago at the end of September - and no recurrence. Celebrating one year cancer free!
Now, heading back to the trail. It is the first trail in the nation to accommodate Amish buggies and bicycles located in Holmes County Ohio and is the most serene experience.
As I started my journey, all I could think about was how very grateful I am. So many things to be grateful for! I kept ruminating the word grateful in my mind as I pedaled through the fields and the arched tree-lined path. The smell of the fresh air with a hint of recent rain in the trees, the sounds of nature, the clip clop of the horse and buggies, the wind on my face, the giggle of young Amish girls riding their bikes in their beautifully colored dresses and white bonnets. It was almost a surreal experience - so relaxing, so peaceful, so rich in texture.
Listening to a recording by Brother David Steindl-Rast he mentioned that gratitude comes when living our lives as if it is the first time experiencing the moment. Every moment is a new gift - a new experience. Let that simple yet profound truth sink in...every moment is new and unique. It is truly a gift that we did not earn or buy, but given to us. We are too often rushing through life that we miss the opportunity to stop and enjoy the moment. Open your eyes, ears, nose and all your sense to embrace the richness given to us in the everyday moments. Take the time to stop, look, and go.
Gratefulness also opens our hearts to the opportunity to help others and to make a difference. Gratefulness can change our world one moment at a time.
"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero
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