Today was a Top Ten Day. Also known in our family as a Blue-Green day. You know, when the leaves are finally out and they are the brightest green they’ll ever be in this season, and the sky is so blue that it’s almost purple. And there’s not one cloud in the sky. A top ten for the year, for sure.
I know in other parts of the country that’s a normal thing. In fact, so normal that you certainly wouldn’t write about it. You probably take it for granted. But for those of us who experience four seasons, a lot of rain, and cloudy days, a day like today is a special gift.
Want to know the best part about today? I got to go outside and experience it. For as long as I wanted. Because I don’t have an immovable schedule like I used to. I could just move things around and spend the time outside. And I did.
I dug in the dirt, weeding, edging, and transplanting. I sifted that dirt, breathed the fresh air, and kept looking up at the cloudless sky in absolute awe. I couldn’t believe my fortune to be out there instead of in an office with artificial light and stale air.
When I went to lunch with friends, we sat outside. Again taking in the beauty of the day.
Even this evening is gorgeous. Not a full moon, but a bright night. The air not humid. Just right. A top ten.
At one point I stood there and just praised and thanked God for this privilege at this time in my life. I don’t want to miss the important days, and this felt like one. Not because I was doing something impressive. Because I wasn’t. Yes, I was doing something. But mostly I was being. Being part of God’s creation. Being part of a supportive community. Being part of the human epic we call life.
Yes, this was an important day because it was the only today I will ever have.
Today was the only today you will ever have, too. And now it’s over. So….what do you want to do tomorrow? How can you take a few moments to really “be” where you are? Breathe and appreciate the fact that you’re alive. At this time in this place. Here. Now.
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I agree Kathleen that yesterday WAS a top ten day this year and made even more special by having some time to “just be” with you!
That definitely made it more special, Deb. I could have sat out there with you and Millie forever.
Thank you for sharing this Kathleen. So simple and yet so important. In London, England we have for the last week or so been having beautiful sunny weather. As I’ve been off work I’ve been outside much more. It is so much more energising to be outside. Actually I think it is better for mental health to be outside no matter what the weather!
I think you’re right, Sunil. Though I do question that wisdom when it’s below 0 and the wind is howling. I’m glad you’re getting to enjoy the great weather right now.
“Being part of the human epic we call life.” I love this statement, and this post, the kind of reminder I need often lest I get too involved in projects to simply, gratefully, absorb my surroundings. I am vicariously celebrating the eloquent simplicity of your Top Ten Day.
And you know, Laurie, there are other types of Top Ten Days that don’t involve the weather. Like celebrating a birth, or rebirth. Finding out that your husband’s going to be okay. And you know how to celebrate those days in style and song. Sing on, my sister.