Day 649

If my Goldens could pick their Happy Place, it would be wherever we are. However, one of the places they love is the cottage. Swans and geese flying over the frozen lake, just a hint of snow in the yard for playtime and small enough quarters to keep their humans close at "paw." A Golden's dream come true!

As I stood in the yard of our Happy Place, the strangest sound met my ears. It almost sounded like Nature was moaning at a whisper. Heading to the shore with my little buddy, Asher, we stood by the lake and listened. It was as if the ice-covered lake was heaving from below the surface. Suddenly, a loud crack swept across the shallows before us. With a look of understanding, Asher and I took about ten steps backwards! We both decided we had a new-found respect for Nature!

Respecting Nature is much like respecting some of the humans in our lives. Nature commands our respect with its power, beauty, unpredictable acts and strength. Except for the unpredictable part, there are a number of people who command my respect with their:

*Beautiful souls

*Powerful goodness of spirit

*Strength of purpose

Being fortunate enough to be in the presence of some of these respected individuals as a child allowed me to observe their actions and people's reactions to the impact delivered. It was the best school of life and I had a front row seat.

I only witnessed my father's justified anger two or three times in my life. My mother's fun spirit would always light up any room. My own Nanny's kindness was evident in her everyday choices. Others modeled strength, beauty and power as well...always in the hope of making the world better.

It is my sincere hope that children still get that front row seat in life as they witness the choices and life goals modeled by their elders. These mentors will always pave the way towards the person the child will become. As adults, we are always at that "chalkboard of life," modeling our best life lessons for those eagerly watching and learning.