Carrots and Other Reminders

I peeled these carrots earlier this morning, and used the cutting board our son Sam made in one of his high school classes. It was part of my morning meditation practice—being present and immersed in the simple actions of cutting, peeling, and washing carrots. This bag offered smaller carrots, so I had larger numbers to peel. I listened to the rhythmic sound of the quick peeling and thought of my mom. She first showed me how to peel carrots and other vegetables. I am pretty adept at it, thanks to Mom and my working fingers.

Mom peeled countless carrots, potatoes and other produce over the years to feed her large family. Mom’s fingers are gnarled and arthritic now. I hold them when I visit her, feeling her warmth and the long history of giving and doing.

I thought of Sam and his handiwork. I miss him and am also content that he is settling into his new job and home.

I ran water from the nearby faucet. Cold when I needed it, warm when that was best. Blessings abound.

Nearby, in the garden window by our sink, I see this reminder, a gift from my friend Kate.

Over the years, several friends and family members have gifted me with various messages of grateful living. Maybe I have inspired some gratefulness in them, and in myself, along the way, but reminders and practices remain key to my wellness and daily mindset.

Thank you Mom, Sam, and Kate. And so many others. Not to mention an incredible natural and human-made world full of abundance. All this world asks of you and me—pay attention, be kind and gentle. It’s a good start. Onward!