DeborahBurkeHenderson.com

UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS

I often suggest folks look for the unexpected blessings in life. This was true way before I started studying and writing haiku poetry which is all about paying attention to the little things in life and expressing gratitude for them. Are you looking for and listening to those whispers that come your way?

They are often found in silence, in stillness, in that moment between other things happening. These occurrences uplift our spirit and bring clarity to our experience.

I may have shared this before, but it is worth reiterating: Truman Fisher, a brilliant jazz and classical musician, composer, and educator is known to have said, “The pause is as important as the note.”

Whether or not you’re a musician, I bet you can appreciate this sentiment. Taking a pause is part of mindfulness practice. It gives us a chance to rest and recalibrate. These moments are blessings in themselves as they widen our perspective and bring calm into our being.

Where can you make space to pause today? Keep open to what you experience.

Someone sharing a smile, wishes for a good day, a tip of the cap, a compliment, a few words of encouragement, a caring touch, an answer to prayer … these are all unexpected blessings. Take each in and savor the connection. And as you move through your day, offer your own gestures of caring and compassion toward others. This is a beautiful way to connect with one another, loved ones and strangers alike.

Several weeks ago, while walking a wooded trail with a friend, the pinecone-covered path opened out to a view of several cormorants sunning on half-submerged logs in the local reservoir. Beyond the birds who were drying their wings, a row of spectacular color—oranges, reds, golds, ambers—spread along the horizon. The contrast of color against the clear blue sky that day was breathtaking. We stood quietly for a few moments, immersing ourselves in the striking beauty.

That image comes to mind, time and again now, and I still consider it an unexpected blessing, just like the gift of each new moment, each new day. Take nothing for granted. Be open and allow moments of awe and wonder to fill you. Your soul and your spirit will be nourished, and you’ll experience a sense of healing and gratitude.

Journaling is a great way to savor these moments. Just list simple bullet points on any given day of things for which you are grateful. Later, upon rereading and reflection, you will find that your joy will be rekindled, often when you need it most.

Stay open to life’s surprises, cultivate gratitude, and recognize that even challenges can lead to unforeseen gifts.

With love,

Deborah

      ________________________

“Hard times are often blessings in disguise.

Let go and let life strengthen and teach you.”

—Unknown

My morning mantra:

"I arise this morning with a smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. 

I vow to live fully in each moment and to greet every being I meet with compassion."

        ~ Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Buddhist monk, peace activist 

                                                                                    [1926 - 2022]