“We will only understand the miracle of life fully
when we allow the unexpected to happen." 
- Paulo Coelho

How do you feel about unexpected happenings? 

Admittedly, some unexpected happenings cause damage, loss, and pain. But very often the unexpected brings serendipities, solutions, gifts, and blessings into our lives.

"Nearly all the best things that came to me in life have been unexpected, unplanned by me," said poet Carl Sandburg. 

Even when an unexpected event initially carries some challenge and loss, very often valuable things come about in the aftermath, especially when we look for them. 

Let's be ready for life's surprises. Along with being ready, let's trust that life is on our side and that something good can and will be found in every change and unexpected event.

With love, hope, and joy,
Charlene

I recently heard about an example of this from my friend, Susan McCallion, who lives and works as a realtor on Sanibel Island. She shares her story here:

"When life gives you hurricanes, grow tomatoes, says Susan with a big, bright smile and a chuckle.

"Before Hurricane Ian, we had a composting bin outside our home. As you can imagine, it was completely swept away by flood waters from the storm. We were sad when we made this realization while picking up our yard.

"But to our surprise, a cherry tomato plant popped up in its place. And, I might add, it produces beautiful little red cherry tomatoes that are delicious. Attending to our new plant has actually become a new hobby of mine. Now, I understand why others love gardening. It really reminds you to slow down, unwind, and appreciate mother nature."

The gift of cherry tomatoes may seem small, but the hope, joy, and delight they carry are valuable beyond measure. Susan's new appreciation for gardening and deepened appreciate for nature are valuable too.

Let's value life's gifts and lessons, large and small, as we trust in the goodness of life, with hope.
 

THE FIFTH GIFT IS HOPE.    

Through each passage and season
may you trust the goodness of life.    
– from The Twelve Gifts of Birth