Simple things
appreciating what's here and now
Writing pieces about simple things, especially gratitude, typically become my favorite posts. I put on my music and lose myself on the page, remembering what's really important.
Last Sunday morning, I began thinking about this post as I sat nestled on the couch watching the Indianapolis 500 with Rick and one of our two kitties. I can't take credit for being a big racing fan, but because my first husband and Rick are huge fans, I've spent the last 35+ years watching the Indianapolis 500. It feels like an integral part of Memorial Day weekend, as American as hot apple pie, watching the jets fly overhead as The National Anthem is sung.
For many years we enjoyed hearing Jim Nabors' beautiful voice sing Back Home in Indiana (may he rest in peace.) This weekend Jewel had the honor of singing The National Anthem. Although I understand she received a mixed review, I found myself crying. She performed a unique rendition that nurtured my beat-up national pride. Aww, it was still there, waiting patiently for me to feel gratitude for our nation.
As we watched the race, I studied the blue wording on my favorite pajamas "Life is good." I glanced at our sweet cat Sis and Rick next to her and sent a prayer of thanks to the heavens for the lovely morning I was having.
I don't typically pay much for pajamas, but a few years back, when I came across these, I splurged because the wording, the pink and blue flowers, and the flip-flops made me feel good. Flip-flops have been my shoe of choice for years. Waking up to happy thoughts seemed worth the little extra I was spending.
Sunday, I smiled to myself and accepted the reminder to take in the simple moments and appreciate what is here and now and what still feels good, even if we have lost much along the way. I live in a country that, while far from perfect, allows me the liberty and privilege to watch The Indianapolis 500 with Rick from the comfort of our home, enjoy the pomp and circumstance of the festivities, and listen to a new and different performer sing The Star Spangled Banner every year. I am allowed to love the rendition or hate it. I have the freedom to share my opinion on a platform like Substack. I have the financial ability to splurge on pajamas. And I can wear flip-flops most everywhere I go. How fortunate I am. Imagine, all that wisdom from a pair of pajamas.
As I began this post, life is about simple things, most especially gratitude.
Growing up in Indiana, I have many memories of the Indy 500. Now that I am living in England, I really appreciate being reminded of simple familiar moments like this one.
What a lovely post! And, actually, most of our moments are simple ... if we don't appreciate them, we're missing gratitude in the biggest part of our lives. I am now stopping, breathing in this slow, peaceful morning, grateful for the reminder to appreciate it.