Monday, September 17, 2012

Fresh Air

mums

I have to admit that I’ve been in a bit of a funk today, sad to see the weekend come to an end.  Amy and I had so much fun together.  We canned peaches, made soup, and even went shopping to pick out a few Halloween decorations.

The thing is, I love my daughter.  And not only that, I really enjoy being around her.  I’ve heard that it’s common for kids this age to prefer the company of just about anyone other than their parents.  But not Amy.  We get along as companionably as those two peas in a pod.

Amy is a junior this year.  Next year she’ll graduate, and leave the nest.  And after having her at home for more than 18 years, it’s going to be a huge adjustment.  True, the day she does leave for college is still well into the future, but sometimes the thought of it overwhelms me.  Like today.

Not long ago, I found the following quote by Ann Frank:

The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be.

I went out into my garden this morning and really took the time to appreciate the flowers that are in bloom-like my chrysanthemums.  I love that mums seem to be everywhere this time of year, because they are nothing short of spectacular.  What would fall be without them?

Ann Frank was a very remarkable young woman, and at the time of her death at the tender age of 16, she already possessed more wisdom than some of us gain in a lifetime.  It makes me so sad to know that during the last years of her life she was denied the remedy of  peace and comfort she wrote about.  There is so much truth in her words.

Happy Monday, dear readers!

6 comments:

  1. It is amazing to me the incredible impact Ann Frank has had on generations of people. :)

    Sorry you're feeling sad - but I am right there with you! My daughter and I love hanging out together. She is in middle school this year, but when I think how close high school graduation really is...well, let's just say I hurry and think of something else!

    Hugs, my dear!

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  2. Melissa, Oh, our wonderful girls! We are so lucky! Ann Frank really was an incredible young woman too-I wonder about what she might have accomplished in different circumstances. I also like what you said about hurrying up and thinking about something else-I try to make myself do the same. Hugs to you, my dear:)

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  3. Love that quote. I hope you find the peace and comfort you seek :-)

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  4. Thanks Lisa! I feel more upbeat today:) Now if the smoke from the forest fires would just go away, I could spend even more time outside!

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  5. I have been having a few more melancholy moments myself lately--and more time with nature is def. in order.

    Sending a hug your way.

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  6. Tina-thanks:) I love knowing that in different times and different places people found comfort in being outdoors, among nature. It truly is, always has been, and hopefully always will be, a universal remedy. Sending a hug back to you:)

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