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The cherry tree (seen vaguely in the background of the photo above) has just begun to unfurl its white blossoms, and just after a full moon arrived and still lingers in the sky at night. Serendipitous timing! To step outside at night in clear sky conditions and gaze at the cherry tree under the moon is a magnificent sight to witness, especially as the two events don't promise to coincide each year. 

A grounding throughout our days occurs when Mother Nature is in proximity. I can often feel unmoored when I spend too much time in a concrete jungle, and once I realize I haven't seen or felt any of her gifts - a river running through the city, the greenery of a park for example - I make a point of prioritizing an 'appointment' with something nearby that only Mother Nature can provide, even if it is tamed a bit by humans. Immediately I find myself breathing more deeply, thinking more clearly and finding it far easier to stay in the present moment. 

I know we aren't all able to live or work at an arm's length to parks, trails or rivers, but often, if we look closely, inquire with sincerity and are patient in our search, we can find access, often free, to pay a visit to Mother Nature, to share time in her company. She has so much to teach us, and one lesson is the reminder of our finite time, but also of the need to renew ourselves by take advantage of opportunites to evolve. Seasons don't last, but opportunities for growth will continue to circle back around if only we see and then seize them. 

I am reminded to seize opportunities literally while gardening, especially during springtime here in Bend. One day the weather will be divine, no coat necessary, the warming of the soil seems instantaneously and a calm breeze, nothing more, urges me to stay outside as long as possible. But then in the next 24-hour cycle, snow will be swirling, the breeze becomes a wind, and I am bringing my delicate plants inside to keep warm. You just never know, so I take advantage of moments when they arise because before I know it summer will be here and that means half the growing season is over. Savoring every opportunity to nurture the garden and enjoy time surrounded by all that grows and chirps are days I will never get back . . . until next spring that is, but I hope to savor as many springs as possible if I am so fortunate, and so I dance with what's given and that in itself is enjoyable as well.

What can you dance with instead of resisting? Where do you find stress when if only you would accept what is, even if it isn't exactly what you want, is pretty awesome indeed? It is all about being present, savoring what is and not asking for more. By giving our full attention and appreciation to what crosses our path that brings us delight, the world listens, pays attention and more often than not brings more for us to savor our way. 

Before we step into May tomorrow, my hope is that you discover one last moment to savor in April, no matter how grand or enduring it may be. When we practice this skill of noticing and savoring what delights us, with each new effort to do so, we find more and more to savor. And before long, each day is full of moments that elevate our life.

Thank you for subscribing to TSLL's free monthly newsletter. A full month of content awaits to be explored and enjoyed. And until May 31st (Friday), the 31st, I will see you on the blog. 😌

—Shannon

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