Reflecting on People and Places in Life

I have always been a HUGE fan of the Beatles and actually remember sitting almost on top of our 13 inch black and white television when they performed on the Ed Sullivan show. (I know, I look younger, but I was there).  I cried when they sang "I want to hold your hand" as I actually thought Paul was singing that to me.

I was always struck by the music, but it was the lyrics and depth that alot of their songs had. Today (after a friend text me about the death of another friend's father) I thought about the friends and family I have in my life and those I have lost. I am reminded that everyone that comes into our lives may only stay a short while but can imprint their footprints on our hearts forever. I so feel that way. Blessed to have so many people come into my life at various stages of my life and leave their impressions. And although a number have left this earth or my immediate circle, I know it was all God's blessings.

 So what does this have to do with the Beatles? Well, it reminded me of one of my favorite John Lennon songs that I wanted to listen to and share here with you.  Enjoy every moment, person and place in Your Life. It is God's gift!!  I dedicate the last lines of this song to my children and Sully.

JOHN LENNON
"In My Life"

(Lennon/McCartney)

There are places I'll remember
All my life though some have changed
Some forever not for better
Some have gone and some remain
All these places have their moments
With lovers and friends I still can recall
Some are dead and some are living
In my life I've loved them all

But of all these friends and lovers
There is no one compares with you
And these memories lose their meaning
When I think of love as something new
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more

Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
In my life I love you more

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI0Q8ytD44Y

Living in the Present Moment

At a very dark time in my life, not so long ago, I came across Eckhart Tolle's audio book The Power of Now. Listening to his words helped me understand just how precious every "moment", situation and person is. Since that time I strive to fully take in every breath, sound and sight whether good or bad. I find that if I just experience the moment and observe it.....Life is not so bad.

Sometimes we (myself included--big time) react too quickly to situations that need us to just "Be Present" and observe.

So the thought for today is from Eckhart---"Accept - then act. Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it. Always work with it, not against it."

..then take a few deep breaths.

Happy Monday!!