This is the time of year when youngsters are learning about the world. I have to be watchful when mowing because there are often baby bunnies or fledglings hopping in the grass. Last week, a young finch was exploring next to the lilac bush, paying no mind to me and the mower. I debated about putting him up on a branch but, after a couple of rounds, he disappeared under the bush and I decided he might be safer from a cat there than up where he could be seen.
One of the saddest things for a rancher is to miss seeing a fawn hidden in tall grasses, and having to kill it after a leg is cut off. It’s always been my practice to look at the ground around me when mowing, which is why they usually put me on a rake in the hayfield rather than the mower. It’s not a big deal if the mowing is ragged in the yard, but in the field, the raker and baler get fluffy when the mower makes a mess.
Few of us spend enough time in the moment. We are usually planning the next chore, deciding what to fix for supper, how to deal with the teenager who keeps nagging for inappropriate privileges, or playing phone tag for business deals. But life is made up of moments and every one we ignore means we are missing our lives.
A family member’s mom had to be moved to a nursing home when dementia made it dangerous for her to live at home. Some days, she knows where she is and who people are, and other times she complains that her deceased husband hasn’t been to see her. Some days, she is in the moment and not happy about it. Some days, she’s in the past. Many of you understand that from personal experience but it’s hard to watch.
My daughter in law decided to give mom a birthday party, hoping for the best outcome. It turned out to be one of the “good days,” and the guest of honor was able to enjoy her family and friends. She even recalled it the next day. Those moments were important for the family members who planned the event, as well as for the mother. Memories can be a precious gift even when they don’t last as long as we would like.
I don’t know what this day will hold for you but I hope you are present for all of it. I hope you really live your life today and don’t miss it. After all, that’s how memories are created.
Meet me here next week and meanwhile do your best. Somebody might like it.