Michael

Sooner or later we all discover that the important moments in life are not the advertised ones, not the birthdays, the graduations, the weddings, not the great goals achieved. The real milestones are less prepossessing. They come to the door of memory unannounced, stray dogs that amble in, sniff around a bit, and simply never leave. Our lives are measured by these. – Susan B. Anthony

Today, this hour, this minute is the day, the hour, the minute for each of us to sense the fact that life is good, with all its trials and troubles, and perhaps more interesting because of them. – Robert Updegraff

The really important moments for me are the small ones, the seemingly insignificant events and the surprising observations of life around me. You know the ones. The smile between friends that speaks volumes. The realization that you and a stranger have just noticed something that has escaped the attention of others.

Playing with puppies or children are very special times, because they are living life to the fullest at every moment. They are completely focused in the present and extracting every ounce of fun that could be had in every second.

I find a lot of solace in watching the flames in a campfire. I can and have watched for hours with friends. There is something fascinating, mesmerizing and comforting all at the same time.

I also love to watch the ocean waves crashing into the seashore. I find that I get into the rhythm of the moment and begin to notice patterns (can’t help it) in their unceasing and seemingly random battering of the shore.

Taking a hike or walk in the forest is another really important activity. For me its therapy, a recharge and time to just be.

There are many more: that perfect cup of coffee, the smell of pancakes while camping, the sound of a guitar, the scent of fir trees in the fall, sunsets, reading a good book, sleeping in on the weekend, cooking a meal for someone, gardening and on and on.

Life for me is about the small things. I feel alive more during those times than in any other.

What are the small things that make life meaningful for you?

Michael