In each of our lives there are moments which we remember and appear to be frozen in time.
They are moments which are idyllic and picturesque as the peaceful waters of a serene shoreline.
Although we cannot summon to the present times gone by we can, via our memories, reflect on precious memories.
I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living or get busy dying.”
Photo Courtesy of Bruce R. Cross
I’d like to share one final, “London 2014” post of our recent trip while some moments are still fresh on my mind.
Many you have commented back to me your appreciation for sharing these thoughts from “across the Pond” as well as including some of our pictures – it has been my privilege.
The lyrics and melody came out of nowhere and took me by surprise on a retro journey to the mid-1960’s and the classic film, The Sound of Music.
We recently were in the UK for over a week on vacation as we spent time with our daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren as they recently moved to rub elbows with the Queen given a temporary work relocation.
It was a blessing to unplug from the day to day and take in the sights and sounds of a new culture.
This past Saturday was a perfect day.
The sunlight was brilliant and the air was crisp.
The clouds were puffy white, with a gentle, cool summer breeze escorting them across the Windsor skyline.
We were in the company of our two stroller bound grandchildren, Danalyn and Garrett, as their Mom and Dad were off for some alone time.
As we made our way through the Windsor Royal Shopping open market, a small crowd gathered.
Both of the children fell fast asleep as we made our way through the small group of people.
We had to stop and take in the moment.
The unexpected snuck up on us and invited itself into our world, even for a brief moment or two.
It was a gift of God given to us by a complete stranger. Please allow me to share it with you in this short video.
A young woman, Jennifer Coleman, with the voice of an angel offered her gift to any and all who would listen.
Jackie and I stood in awe of what we heard, simply enjoying the moment.
I was overwhelmed with emotion, tears streaming down my face and my voice quivering as I tried to explain to Jackie what I was experiencing.
God met me in the moment and it is one which I will not forget. The gift of song completely swept over me like a wave at the ocean.
You may or may not enjoy classical music. It was my first dip in this pool.
However, it would be well worth your time to check out what this young woman has to offer as she attempts to support her studies at The Royal College of Music in London.
Her collection, Simple Gifts, is outstanding!
Seth Godin in his book, Tribes, talks about one offering their art to those who would follow. It does not have to be perfect art, simply art offered and improved upon in the process.
You do not have to sing soprano.
Nor do you have to paint formally as my sister-in-law, Joan, does. Although I may be biased her art is well worth the time to stop by her online gallery.
You simply have to offer what you may have.
Your offering could be:
My encouragement to you is this. Please offer your gift, whatever it may be, with those in your world.
You never know when what you have to offer might make another’s day!
How might this post encourage you to share whatever gift you might have to offer?
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalms 91:1-2 (NIV) Photo Courtesy of Bruce R. Cross on Location in Windsor
If you are willing to change your thinking, you can change your feelings. If you change your feelings, you can change your actions. And changing your actions, based on good thinking, can change your life!” – John C. Maxwell.
Words to a writer are like paint is to an artist, waiting to be applied to an invisible yet real canvas tucked away in the world of ideas and thoughts.
At times the words flow freely like water cascading from a waterfall, making their way downstream and reaching their intended destination – hopefully influencing the hearts and minds of those who read them.