As a woman accepting the aging process I often wonder what about me will remain after I am gone? Nothing lasts forever, not even these warm sultry summer days. It isn’t because I don’t want them too; it simply is not possible. Already I am seeing the days slip by when I want them to slow down. I long for yesterday to be today and for tomorrow to be delayed. Yet summer is moving on and so are its memories. Memories I can hold close even as they have come and gone. So, what will it be with me?
My perspective has certainly changed over the past 6 months. It has changed into one that sees how life-giving gratitude has become. Gratitude has caused me to find those moments where my thoughts drift back, lingering over what has touched my heart. I can capture them for the moment and release them to bless others. Gratitude, I hope, is becoming a part of my legacy as my children and grandchildren grow to appreciate the memories of me. I have discovered a form of acceptance in myself that I believe will outlast anything tangible that I can give. This includes a playfulness and a kindness that hasn’t always been present.
My dad used to say, “This too will pass.” As a kid I hated hearing that because it was so much about my disappointment in the moment. Yet now, it is more about accepting the present…allowing it to be…and savoring its time. Yes, summer too will pass…as for me…not yet. My hope is to linger awhile longer, to enjoy, to give and to be fully present for others.
nbsp
Mary Jane Hamilton has grown to love her sense of style and her peaceful lake living. Mother of 2 and grandmother of 6, she has a wonderful capacity to love and is still active as The Tooth Fairy. She is extremely fond of her dachshunds, who rarely venture from her lap, and enjoys biking with her husband of 44 years. She is rekindling her writing skills and finding it life giving.
&nb
sp
Your writing settles in bringing reflective moments – a sense of peace and yet bringing tender impact !
So grateful that the words within you are being shared with us…we are truly the benefactors of your story and journey. You invite me to embrace more of me.
I love the idea of the acceptance of yourself being a legacy you pass on, along with playfulness and kindness. I have experienced this with you, and am grateful. Your willingness to continue to grow and learn, with kindness rather than striving, is inspiring.
Enjoying reading about your gratitude. So refreshing! What a sweet reminder to live and soak up the moments.
So grateful for your commitment to Gratitude which is wedded to your TRUTH.
“a form of acceptance of myself” so speaks to my heart too Mary Jane. Thank you for your beautiful words and your stunning photo.