A new year; a new beginning… One of my goals was to have more balance in my life. So, instead of going to work 45 minutes early everyday, I decided to drink my coffee in a little park by the river. I decided to be still; to begin my days with peace and meditation. It has been a blessing.

Monday morning, while listening to the gurgling stream, sipping one of the two steaming cups of coffee I had purchased (it was Monday after all!) and reading, I was blessed. A majestic Blue Heron had landed in the stream right in front of me. I stayed still for a while just watching it. The sun lit up the sheen of its plumage and reflected in the water. I carefully began to inch my way forward and take photos with my iPhone. I left the river and drove to school with a sense of wonder and a smile.

Oh how quickly a smile can turn to a frown! Arriving at work, I parked and began to gather my luggage (elementary teacher baggage). As I reached for the second cup of steaming coffee, the lid popped off and the scalding liquid erupted. After and expletive and a scramble to get out of the pool of pain, I cleaned the seat with a pair of my son’s sweatpants and drove back home to quickly change my clothes and race back to work. Reflecting on the events of the morning, it occurred to me that I could choose to focus my attitude on the heron or a burned bum.

A new year; a new beginning;
new requirements; less take home pay; overwhelming expectations;
new relationships; the unknown.
The children;
shy smiles; boisterous bodies;
full of wonder; curious;
hugs; love.

This year I choose to focus on the blessings!