Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Fireflies

I had this great post forming in my head about nature, Charlotte Mason, and child led learning. I will get to that but something came up.

We strive to live an intentional life. We try to focus on the moment and celebrate the ordinary. Of course, we slip out of that and let concerns and the what will happen of tomorrow slip in. Recently I had a major health scare in my life. It was the catalyst for a sharp refocusing of what is truly important.

Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,
Old Time is still a-flying;
And this same flower that smiles today,
Tomorrow will be dying.
                     Robert Herrick


I am not trying to be morbid or shocking but we would do well to realize we have a very limited time here in this world. Although we all need to find a way to support ourselves and care for our responsibilities, I think it would be wise to truly review our lives and decide if our wants and needs are legitimate or if we might just be mixing them up a bit. When I thought I might lose my life I didn't think of the cars I wouldn't get to drive or the homes I wouldn't own. I didn't regret the luxuries I didn't sample. Nope, all I could think of was I wanted more time with those I loved. I wanted more time to develop deeper and more authentic relationships. It was ALL I wanted. Nothing else. Crazy how it all comes together in an instant.

Last night before bed my daughter saw the age old dance of the fireflies begin in our backyard. Bedtime was pushed back so we could all go stand on the back stairs in the dark to watch this beloved memory of childhood. As we stood in reverent silence I found I watched my children's faces more than the light show. It was magical. Their beautiful faces lit up with animation as they watched.

I told my daughter some people believed they were fairies and could grant your wishes. She whispered quietly in awe, "Oh we are so lucky. We are so lucky to be here. We are just so lucky to see this."

Yes baby, yes we are.