Perspective

Today was one of those days when at first glance everything seemed beautiful, but then the persistent wind picked up. Garbage, tree limbs, shingles and unknown other debris is being blown hither and yon. A fine layer of dust has settled on everything. Its easy to allow the 'stormy' climate to affect ones mood. Its almost easier to be short with others, bitter and hurt. In reality a different perspective can change the tone of the day.

"Fairy tales, are more than true. Not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be defeated."
G.K. Chesterton

Often it is simpler to succumb to the tone established by those around us. It takes strength of character to actively choose to rise above the waves of negativity that roll in around us. Today has been a monumental struggle for me. The day started on the sourest of notes and things haven't impoved much since. I don't honestly know that things are really all that bad, but rather my perspective today is very narrow.

The only way to keep my head above the waves is look beyond myself, keep my eye on the shore, and keep swimming. The day wasn't filled with roses, but there was sunshine and dandelions. Dandelions, though a bit of nuisance, are quite happy little flowers, and if it weren't for dandelions and tulips, there wouldn't be any spring flowers this year.

"The miracles of nature do not seem miracles because they are so common. If no one had ever seen a flower, even a dandelion would be the most startling event in the world."
~unknown

One has to consider the strength and persistence of a dandelion. It grows prolifically in shade and in light and I believe it to be the most despised of all flowers. In fact, it has crossed over from a flower to dreaded weed, but it continues to grow and prosper regardless of the unfavorable moniker. You can mow your lawn today and rid yourself of them, but there will be new ones tomorrow.

Imagine how sad the world would be without dandelions. I think back as a child how many times I wished upon the feathery puff of a dandelion that was ready to scatter its seeds. Those tiny little white feathers intrigued and delighted me. They drifted on the breeze and carried my dreams into the sky. Just like your never too old to build a snowman, have a snowball fight, blow bubbles, have a water fight, your never too old to wish on a white, feathery dandelion!