This morning I started the day at the absurdly early hour of 6:18 AM. Why you ask? Given that I am not known for early morning starts, especially in the summer with few formal obligations.  

Well, I had to get the compost to the top of the stairs for an early morning pickup. If we leave it there the night before, the local racoon families have a party.  They invite their friends and leave a big mess.  

Not very interesting or exciting, huh? However, while riding the chairlift up the stairs, I had a chance to look out over the lake and see the mist rising off the water. It was beautifully calm after a turbulent day, and I decided that I would begin my day rather than go back to bed. 

It was a good thing that I did because I remembered that I had not submitted a blog for this week! And, I don’t have a topic to write about, so I thought that I would share what is going on in my world right now. 

It has been an emotional couple of weeks for our family. The sudden death of my sister-in-law brought a lot of life issues into focus for me. This past weekend was spent traveling back and forth to Maine for her memorial. As is not always the case, I was an observer for this event, a guest with no obligations other than to watch and listen. No food to prepare, no arrangements to make or people to greet. It was a strange place for me, I must admit.  

I was happy that Anne had so many loving friends, but sad that I was not a part of that special group. Here is where I need to turn to God for consolation and instruction. I try to design a plan that I would like to see, but that is not the one that God has in mind for me. Acceptance is the key. Acceptance and gratitude for all that I have been given. 

I have so much to be grateful for in this world of many troubles and sadness. I have a family that loves me and accepts me just as I am – imperfections and all. I have friends that provide counsel and nurturing when needed. I can be proud of 56 years of marriage-through many valleys and over some tall mountains. So, to spend time wanting something that I cannot have, is just not in my best interest. 

I want to be happy, joyous and free! Don’t we all? God, who loves you unconditionally, wants that for all His children. I turn my will and my life over to the care of a loving God. Amen. 

Terri