Most of the shadows of this life are caused by our standing in our own sunshine. Ralph Waldo Emerson

So often in life we look at opportunities, but instead of seeing all they have to offer, we concentrate on what might go wrong. We become so concerned that there may be inherent pitfalls that we cast a shadow over our dreams.

Develop the habit of letting the sun shine without constantly looking for what may go wrong. Seize opportunities when they come and know that the sunshine will always outweigh the shadows.

Today, I am grateful for the ability to see opportunities for what they are, for the courage to look past the possible shadows that may come and the faith that everything will work out as it should.


I am grateful for music, for fine art and watermelons. I am grateful for the roaring stream filled with fresh spring runoff, growing green things that emerge under the cover of the night and for laughter that fill the soul.


I am grateful for family and friends who bring joy to my life, for the beautiful blue jay that swoops in to gather food, and for paperclips.


And, I am grateful for you dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May your day be filled with sun shine as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.