Unexpected Kindness

I had a long day at work--it's one of those days that didn't start right and one that I didn't expect to end well.  But I never take work-related anxiety home, at least I try not to.  Home is my retreat!

But what really turned things around today was a little surprise from Lynette.  Among the mails today, I got a set of postcards and a photo of little Christina with thoughtful little notes on each of them.  I have not been receiving postcards in ages, until Lynette started sending me some a couple of months ago.  It is comforting to know that despite the rapid evolution of the internet that allows people to send messages quickly and more conveniently, someone out there still takes the time and energy to lovingly scribble her thoughts.

And Lynette?  Of all people, it's Lynette!  Didn't she just had a baby?!  I guess it's not her thoughtfulness that's unexpected.  For the little time that I've known her, I realized how much she cares about other people--about her friends, some of whom she hasn't even met.  But with a new baby and a growing family, I'm sure she has her hands full, yet she still takes the time to write.

Dear Lynette, I am sure you've done the same to your many friends but I just want to let you know how deeply moved I am to be receiving such kindness from you.  Your notes made me smile and I'm going to keep smiling everytime I see them.  If you ever find yourself in my side of the country, please do let me know.  I will do the same.  I hope to meet you someday and give you my biggest hugs!  ~Liza

***

Photo:  An old photo.  One of the roses that my dad planted in our backyard.

Glimpse:  Reminds me of how my dad lovingly nurtured these flowers, watering them morning and afternoon, especially on warmer days.  Some things people do without knowing how much it matters to other people.  But to some, they actually do matter.

Glimpse

I was watching a Nicholas Cage-movie last weekend called "The Family Man".  I've seen it I think three times--not my favorite, but quite a good movie I must say--one with a good moral lesson.

The one thing from the movie that got stuck in my head though is the word "glimpse".  You see, I always have this tendency to glimpse--to glance at the past and ask "what if that never happened?  what if I had decided to do this instead of that?  what if I had not gone to this school or chose a different career path?  what if I had not met this person?".  Oftentimes, I do this when I am looking at photos. I love looking at old photos and remembering the moment--where and what exactly happened when that photo was taken. 

And maybe this is why I love taking photos, because I want to be able to go back to something--something that will make me remember and allow me a glimpse of the past and a realization of how things unfolded thereafter.  I hope people I take photos of will do the same--not wonder "what if..." but enjoy the memory of a moment that may never be repeated.

Maybe I should brand my work "glimpse" going forward.  I bet there's probably several photographers out there who use this word for their name or as part of their name (I googled it and found a few).  But that's ok--it's just a name.  Not that I'm turning this hobby into a business--I do not want to start something that I cannot commit to.  I've done it before (start a business) and it went nowhere due to the lack of commitment and investment of time and resources.  It's not easy and that is why I have so much respect for people who turn their passion into a money-making venture (some of whom may be reading this blog).  My cousin J's is starting to take off and I really hope she goes a long way because she's really very passionate about it, not to mention how good she is with her craft.

***

Photo:  Lovers' Point, Pacific Grove, CA

Glimpse:  Two things I think about when looking at this photo: (1) I first came here on a winter--there was hardly anybody at the park and on the beach; (2) My sister's journey to have a baby and those babies she's lost--one of them we buried here.

Love Cries Out...

... like a champion of battle long fought but rarely won.

I rush headlong unsure, exposed and yet unafraid.

What is this standard I bare so proudly?

What is this strength I feel bubbling up

through body and mind?

It is passion uncorked.

It is friendship unrivaled.

It is chemistry without science.

It is wisdom beyond understanding.

It is laughter sprung from indefinable joy.

It is caring that cannot be washed away.

It is acceptance, unconditional and true.

It is beauty unmatched.

It is comfort without trepidation.

It is knowledge that expands and grows.

It is mystery unfolding.

It is greatness undenied.

It is constant and without borders.

It is limitless possibility.

It is wonder and bliss.

It is YOU.

My heart, my love, my soulmate, my angel.

I am changed and triumphant and will never be the same.

~ anonymous ~

I don't know what it was that brought us two together, but one thing's for sure--sticking around was one of the best decision I have ever made.

Happy Anniversary, my Love.  Thank you for four amazing years!