A state of Serenity

I once wrote a letter to my aunt in which I described a moment in time. I was sitting on my back patio one afternoon, many years ago, and realized that at that moment in time, all of my children were happy. All the daily trials and worries were, for that moment, a thing of the past. My husband was enjoying his day, and all was "right in my world." I decided to write to her and in this way, preserve this realization. I wanted to make sure that when all the madness returned, I had preserved this feeling of euphoria. In this way, I felt that I was acknowledging that the happiness I had been given was worthy of recognition and of thanks.

My aunt wrote back within the week and in her most eloquent fashion, described my feeling as that of the "serenity we all seek in this life." What a wonderful way of concisely putting all my random thoughts into one simple statement. I was so inspired by this letter that I vowed to take an assessment of my life and the gifts that I receive on a more regular basis. For I think that each one of us is given these moments of serenity and it is only a precious few that actually realize that they have experienced them. And even fewer still that actually give thanks for having received such a gift.

I had this moment last week. I was visiting my children and grand son in Atlanta for the week. Each day of my stay, I tackled a new adventure or dealt with some issue in each of their lives -- be it a fun excursion to the mall, shopping for material, toasting raises/promotions, or moving furniture. By the time Friday arrived and we were preparing for a surprise party for my daughter, I felt as if I had enjoyed all that I could. I was thanking God for all the happiness of the week, and yet I had one remaining issue that kept my focus. One of my children was still facing challenges that I could not fix. I was aching to "make it right" and take away the anxiety that was his and yet it was beyond my control. My son was was facing an interview after a very long and stressful job search. I sat in a chair during the time that he was interviewing and prayed that he would be successful. I asked for just one more wonderful miracle for my son who so needed to have a moment of triumph.

And my prayers were answered. He was not only successful, but triumphant! He was offered a position and accepted.

At that moment, all the pain, worry, upset, and heartache of the past four months dissolved. My tears were spontaneous and my joy boundless. I had achieved that serenity that we all seek and with many thanks and celebration, I have appreciated this dear and precious gift.

My cup runneth over. Life is Good.