And then all of a sudden, things change. I passed by the place where the crocuses were pushing up and somewhat bedraggled. Right next to them these brilliant little purple flowers had popped up, fresh and full of vitality. Passing snowstorms notwithstanding, they are courageously taking their stand. There is a lesson here.

Plants are full of energy and certainly respond to their environment, our loving attention and certain vibrations. However, I don’t think they are distracted by memories, passing emotions or feelings of inadequacy. They are unmoved, perhaps in a very Buddhic way, by all but their firm dedication to their purpose. Although perhaps not as purposeful, it reminds me of this tale titled “Maybe.”

There is a Taoist story of an old farmer who had worked his crops for many years. One day his horse ran away. Upon hearing the news, his neighbors came to visit. “Such bad luck,” they said sympathetically. “Maybe,” the farmer replied. The next morning the horse returned, bringing with it three other wild horses. “How wonderful,” the neighbors exclaimed.
“Maybe,” replied the old man. The following day, his son tried to ride one of the untamed horses, was thrown, and broke his leg. The neighbors again came to offer their sympathy on his misfortune. “Maybe,” answered the farmer. The day after, military officials came to the village to draft young men into the army. Seeing that the son’s leg was broken, they passed him by. The neighbors congratulated the farmer on how well things had turned out. “Maybe,” said the farmer.

The farmer is not indifferent, and at least in my imagination, remains aware that he is in reality the creator his life. He is also keenly aware, or should we be so, that we are participating with the universe/God/the angels and that intercession/detour/distraction is part of the game. Sometimes the wind blows east, sometimes west. Can we remain unmoved, centered and peacefully secure ‘under our own vine and fig tree’?

I’m delighted, or perhaps amazed, that I am receiving these unspoken messages from these little flowers, whose name I don’t even know. The movements of spring are fearless in the face of it all. Lesson learned.

I’ve finally begun to understand the phrase “Expect miracles.” It’s not whimsy or like blowing out the birthday candle. It’s a practice. In many cases, wishing includes wanting, leaving a big gap between where we are and where we would like to be. Practicing gratitude and unswerving belief closes the gap and puts you in the place where miracles are already happening.

For some time I’ve been thinking about another chair for my living room. Because it’s a relatively small space, I didn’t want something big and heavy but was still seeking comfort and perhaps a place to put my feet up and read by the window. Last week in the mail I got a flyer addressed to Resident featuring a big sale on recliners at a large local furniture outlet. Even though the chairs looked large, the prices were good and perhaps they might have something that suited me. In any case, it was a clue that it was time to go shopping.

Yesterday was the day. Armed with the flyer and a price ceiling in mind, I planned my route. First I’d stop by the used furniture store just in case they might have something. Then I’d head out to the big furniture stores. Even though I was excited about the possibilities, I found myself dragging my feet a little at the prospect of the big stores, aggressive sales people and the temptation to spend too much. Nevertheless I headed out and began wandering the used furniture store. It’s a great place, feels like family and you’re always greeted by a very mellow golden retriever.

There in the back room was just the type of chair I was looking for, and didn’t even know it. Not too big, in good condition, soft and comfy and with a matching ottoman. Then I looked at the price tag. It was less than half of my planned expense. I was so surprised that I kind of wandered around the store and tried some other chairs I knew I didn’t want. I even thought of going to the big stores and coming back. Then I caught myself and realized my little “miracle” had just occurred and I better say yes!

The chair had just arrived at the used store the night before and the ottoman was included in the amazingly low price. Since I live on the third floor with no elevator, I signed on to have the store deliver, which brought the total to just half of my projected spending. I think the store owner was a little surprised at my absolute delight. It wasn’t just the chair. It was all the little details of a miracle, which by now I should realize are part of my creative visualization process. The gratitude literally rushed through me while I paid the bill. And that’s what I mean by practice. Follow the clues, listen closely, watch miracles unfold, express your gratitude, realize that you can make things happen with your faith and belief, and move forward with love in your heart.

PS Forgot to take a picture of the chair, which will be delivered tomorrow. This is an orchid I’ve had for over 3 years, which goes quiet for long periods of time and then all of a sudden begins to bloom. Another miracle that keeps on happening.

Just as I have been writing about our true nature and attuning to the higher realm, I found this lovely expression in an overnight snow right near my garage yesterday. Someone took the time to create footprints of love. It lightened my day and reminded me to keep life simple, focus on the essentials and make my interactions and expressions heartfelt.

This morning as I walked in the crispy air along the duck pond trail, there was definitely love in the air along with a lot of quacking and conversation. I wondered if they were considering whether to stay for the winter. The pond is almost all frozen and they were huddled in one corner where the water is still flowing. Perhaps they were discussing warmer destinations. The lesson for me was to love the ones you’re with and make the best of your circumstances, even if a change is necessary.

Finally along the trail I met a man with a beautiful Saint Bernard who jumped up joyfully to greet me. I asked if the dog was still young, because she was smaller than some. She was 10 months old, just past puppyhood. I have always thought that if I ever had a dog (not so feasible in a third floor apartment), it would be a Saint Bernard. Perhaps it’s my imagination but they seem so determined and mission oriented.

I remember tales of climbers being rescued from snowbound situations on the high mountain trails of the Alps. Anyway, it’s one of those dreams that has swirled around me for many years. As the man walked away, he called the dog to follow saying, “C’mon Suzy.” Hmmm. I’m usually a Susan and not a Suzy, but it was close enough to remind me not to give up on my dreams. Sorry no picture of the actual Suzy, but she looked something like this.

All this to say that if your heart is open, the messages will appear. Sometimes you don’t have to travel far. God Winks and I am reminded that the universe is listening, lessons are rolling in and I only need be grateful to realize that I’m on the right track.