Storytelling

Hope, perhaps a strategy?

Greetings. 

I know the last month has been trying. In particular, the overloading of the grim images and details will test the capacity of even the most hardened and experienced life veterans. Situations like the ones we are facing are felt by all, no matter position, fame, fortune, geography. 

It’s important to stay healthy and one method I urge is to regroup your focus. Remember to keep your mindset on the things you can control, not on the things you can’t. 

It has been said that hope is not a strategy. Perhaps, but in a strange way it surely is. Let me explain. 

Hope is supported by evidence.  

Trapped indoors these past weeks has been trying. The weather cold, it’s snowy and the sky extra gloomy. In fact I coulda' written a country song!

The first day of April arrived and found me working at my desk late into that evening. Then I hear my name excitedly called by Nancy. I jump up and sprint to the call, following the point of her finger to look out the window into the back yard. As I focussed my eyes through the falling snowflakes, my heart jumped. About a dozen Robins, all well fed with bright orange bellies were taking off and landing in our Mayflower tree. It was a party in the snow. The first birds of spring were back en masse and the old tree I had planted decades ago was providing sustenance once again. 

More than a week has passed and I'm witnessing all sorts of spring birds that have returned from who knows where. The Cedar Wax Wings are celebrating by getting drunk on last season's fruit hanging frozen in anticipation. The tiny little Red Pole accelerates faster than a Tesla past the back door en route to the highest perch. Then he unleashes his amazing voice calling for love and continuation. The Black Crows and Magpies move over making room for the new arrivals. The cycle continues as the new and replenished takes precedence again.

For some folks perhaps this sounds like the droning of a sentimental ol’ guy.  But my Hope is to ignite a spark in you to remember always to find joy in the rhythm of life. I Hope you get a glimpse too and share that Hope with someone else. 

"Someone is enjoying the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” 

Take care all.