As the last rays streamed down creating a masterpiece on the still water of the canal I was transfixed on how an ordinary canal running behind my mother's home became a work of art. The canal's dirt road, the fields in the background, the barns and sheds that dot the canal bank were transformed simply from nature's brush of golden hue.
The nearby eucalyptus scented the air, the branches gracefully bowing added to the scene. I was taking a photo of my nieces their eyes deep pools called me in, "I know you. I love you. You are the tomorrows of many moons and stars."
Later as I was washing dishes, while my mom baked cookies I was carried away from the moment with thoughts about returning back to France. Making mental lists as my thoughts raced from one thing to another. The marbleize suds popped catching my attention, my mental list stopped. I looked over at my mom who was measuring butter, cinnamon, and love into her mixing bowl.
Be present at the moment.
Be present to now.
This is why you are here.
My heart swelled as I prayed I would become more mindful to the moment at hand.
The coming and going of youth and age, like the changing seasons crossing our stage, slowly transform before our eyes, and yet suddenly the recognition that something has passed, the time has gone by, life's experiences have settled within the soul of who we are.
The sun sets highlighting the walnut tree by the chicken pen.
A crown appears on the end of the day.
What did I make of it? It gave me more than I gave back.
The fortunate moment at hand, while others for no other reason of their own live in turmoil (war, famine…)
What do I make of this glorious gift of peace, harmony, love, family, meals, faith, comfort, water, land… the time to reflect without worry?
Is it enough?
All this because of the sunset over the canal behind my mother's home.
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