I take Willow out to the back field to "do her business" in the evenings using a flashlight to avoid the spots where she previously "did her business". Head down, each step is carefully made concentrating on the next spot I will place my foot. It's dark out in the country.
I took her out the other night with this same routine and we reached the end of the field. Something prompted me to look up for a second and what I saw was a sight to behold. My 86 year old neighbor who meticulously cares for the home he shares with his disabled wife had decorated his house and yard with lights and other holiday decorations. It was dazzling! His house is on a dead end leading to the lake and few people will even see this display yet he takes the time to cover his house with a lovely holiday glow.
I thought about this moment as a way we sometimes live our lives. We carefully plan each step so as not to make a mistake yet we miss the beauty of what is right in front of us if we don't simply stop, look up, and take in the beauty of our surroundings. So many of us are afraid of "stepping in it" and making our lives messy and the moments like this go unnoticed and unappreciated.
I said a silent thanks to my sweet neighbor for taking the time to bring beauty into our little corner of the village and for teaching me of an important lesson. Unexpected surprises await if I just look around!
