A Mile, or a Hundred, in My Shoes

Although winter in western New York has only recently begun, I am patiently - well maybe not so much, waiting for the bitter cold temperatures to break.  In my decades of residing here in the deep freeze I have found it much more satisfying to delude myself into focusing on the idea that winter is always almost over, rather than focusing on the real deal - that it's going to go on...and on...and on.  In fact I realize that it could continue, in periodic bursts and spurts, right up until the next winter season returns.  Such is life here in the Finger Lakes.

Speaking of the lakes, there is a certain pristine beauty here that keeps most of us die-hard fans here no matter what the weather dishes out, and believe me, she dishes plenty.  There's something about the sensory extravaganza in this unique region that makes me happy to be here, when I pause long enough to experience it.  There is so much color and texture and fragrance at any given moment, and unmatched variety in the landscape.

Today I had the privilege to speak to a wonderful group of people at an assisted living facility about God and faith.  It was a good distance from my home and they had just opened up the roads after a blustery, frigid cold spell had gripped the area again.  My journey was actually self-serving because those accepting, faith-filled residents blessed me more than they'll ever know.  They complemented my outfit, my message and they were quick to extend their hands to welcome me.  All I did was talk, and listen.

No matter what the weather brings, calm and sunny or cold and snowy, opportunity abounds each and every day.  Opportunity to start fresh, to enjoy the moment, and to touch someone's life.