Reflections

Finding Moments of Joy during Challenging Times

35 Comments

Carol A. Hand

I awake with thoughts of my grandson and an ache in my heart
to the sound of chainsaws buzzing, felling a neighbor’s trees
still I arise and find strength to play my part

Although sunny, it’s one of the heavier days
I breathe and listen deeply and hear my parakeets’ song
then I remember I can still sow kindness and love in many little ways

I can celebrate another Earth Day
by letting my grandson know I love him
and by repurposing salvage and old landfill in a healthier way

Washing boards salvaged from an old fence

retaining wall

Digging up buried asphalt and concrete that stifles growth

retaining wall 2

Removing old buckthorn tree stumps

retaining wall 1

Repurposing old materials to build retaining walls to prevent erosion

DSC01336

And building a movable stand for a grow light

grow light stand

Planting organic seeds

DSC01319

And celebrating the wonder of life in the first kale plant to emerge

DSC01342

 

Even in times of sadness it’s a moment by moment choice
to live in hopeless despair
or give love and new life a voice

***

Copyright Notice: © Carol A. Hand and carolahand, 2013-2016. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Carol A. Hand and carolahand with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

35 thoughts on “Finding Moments of Joy during Challenging Times”

        1. It is a humongous undertaking, Trace, but it’s a good balance after a winter of being stuck in a chair writing. 🙂 I’ll be sitting again soon enough when I begin editing in May. And speaking of accomplishments, congratulations to you for the publication of your newest book, “Stolen Generations”!

          Liked by 1 person

  4. Boy, if your grandson is anything like you, you know that he is going to overcome this current challenge with grit and determination! Praying for him, and that he will get the proper treatments. Today someone sent me this link to a TEDxSF lecture, about living in the moment, with beautiful photography. I think it ties in beautifully with your outlook: https://youtu.be/gXDMoiEkyuQ and I hope it brings you a blessing to your day! 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much for such kind and lovely comments, Hildegard, and for sharing such a profoundly beautiful video. I love Louie Schwartzberg’s work – it never fails to bring tears of awe and gratitude for the wonders of life. ❤

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  13. sorry to hear of his condition
    & the sadness it brings, Carol!
    may the miracle of insulin & other medicines
    keep him healthy & happy.
    my nephew, diagnosed with type 1 when 12
    has been under control & well for the last 12 years.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

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