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| Pumpkin Patch of Color - 18X24 Oil on Canvas - Michael Lindstrom |
The Road to Thankfulness
During this time of year, most people pause to be thankful for the blessings in their life as we approach Thanksgiving Day.
I have found, that in my extremely busy life - like most folks - it is easy to use my time and energy to just keep up with my responsibilities. If I have any free time I sometimes collapse! Remembering to consciously be thankful - all along the way - is something that must be cultivated. It is a virtue, much like discipline or forgiveness - it is a choice.
The above scene is a photo of one of my husband's oil paintings. I am featuring it on this post because I like the way the road winds through the fertile field. Also, because I was with Michael when he painted it, and it brings to mind a lovely memory. We were situated beneath a large oak tree just off to the left of the rural road, enjoying a simple picnic lunch as he painted. I had brought along a good book and my journal. The memory of that late summer day, shared with the man I love, will always be with me. When Michael first took me out with him painting he would say things like, "Isn't that violet color in the sky beautiful?" Not being an oil painter, I would not even see the subtle color. As time has past, my perception has improved. I can now see some of those colors he's referring to. I have to want to see them.
We hear the admonition all the time in our society: "Be thankful for the little things in life," but it's so true. We must see the small serendipities that grace each of our days. Looking back over the year of 2013, there have been many ups and downs in my life - both personally and professionally. It has been a choice, especially some days, to be thankful. The road to thankfulness is one that is a lifelong journey.
"A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues." Cicero
This year I feel especially thankful for the time I have to be creative.
What are you thankful for this year as we approach the holidays?
