The side of the mountain....

It is Ash Wednesday, and once again, I am turning my mind to my usual 40 Days of Gratitude.  But this year, I have a slightly different focus.

The mountaintop moments of life are wonderful, and the valleys deep and difficult.  But most of us don't spend our daily lives in either place.  Most of life is lived on the slope, pulling ourselves up, or sliding down and trying not to fall any further than we have to.

From a distance, the trail on the side of a mountain looks uniform and smooth.  But when you are there, the path is usually rough, the climb is steep, and the way is strewn with rocks and debris.  It can be hard going, when viewed up close and personal.

But in the midst of it all, there is great beauty to be found, as well.  Small flowers blooming.  Evergreens below the tree line.  Animals scrabbling around, sustaining themselves on the small bits of vegetation hiding in the rocks.  Even high on a mountain, there is awe and wonder to be found in the snow, the beauty, the feeling of approaching the top of the world.  There is much to appreciate, when we stop to really pay attention.

This year, I want to actively recognize the small things in my life that bring everyday joy, hope and blessings.  As I once again take the Lenten journey to the cross, I want to acknowledge the daily ways God has given me sustenance and uplift.  I hope that as I share my daily quest, you will also find something in your own journey to take forward.

Happy Valentine's Day on this Ash Wednesday.  I wish you peace and joy in this day.