Enjoy Nature

"The best remedy for those who are afraid, alone 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 and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature."  Anne Frank (1929-1945)  Netherlands

Sunset on Kauai

"With hurricanes, tornadoes, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thurnderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Alligiance?" Jay Leno

Well said, Jay! If you don't want to say the word God, then don't say it, but don't expect it to be removed simply because you don't believe in God or don't want it there. It's not abusing your rights by leaving it in, but it is abusing ours by being forced to remove it. If you don't like it, just do what the kids do these days, and put your hands over your ears and say, blah, blah, blah.

Don't Weep For Me

Today's blog is dedicated to a friend who just lost her mother. I lost my mom over three years ago and still miss her terribly. I don't think we ever get over losing a loved one, but time does ease the pain. I hope that, in some small way, this poem helps with that process. God bless you and your family.

Do not stand by my grave and weep.

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints upon the snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain and

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush,

I am that swift uplifting rush,

Of quiet birds in circling flight.

I am the soft star that shines at night.

Do not stand by my grave and cry.

I am not there. I did not die.

Don't Mourn For Me

This poem is dedicated to a friend of mine who just lost his father. I hope these words will bring some comfort to him, and to others who have lost loved ones. I know it isn't easy and the healing process can be long. I lost my mom over three years ago and still miss her terribly. It does get easier with time, but we'll always miss those we've loved and lost.

Please don't mourn for me.

I'm still here, though you don't see.

I'm right by your side each night and day.

And within your heart I long to stay.

My body is gone, but I'm always near.

I'm everything you see, feel and hear.

My spirit is free, but I'll never depart

As long as you keep me alive in your heart.

I'll never wander out of your sight -

I'm the brightest star on a Summer night.

I'll never be beyond your reach -

I'm the warm moist sand when you're on the beach.

I'm the colorful leaves when Fall comes around.

I'm the pure white snow that blankets the ground.

I'm the beautiful flower of which you're so fond,

The cool clear water in a quiet pond.

I'm the first bright blossom you'll see in the Spring,

The first warm raindrop that April will bring.

I'm the first ray of light when the sun starts to shine.

And you'll see that the face in the moon is mine.

When you start thinking that there's no one to love you,

You can talk to me through the Lord above you.

I'll whisper my answer through the leaves on the trees

And you'll feel my presence through the soft Summer breeze.

I'm the hot, salty tears that flow when you weep,

And the beautiful dreams that come while you sleep.

I'm the smile that you see on a baby's face,

Just look for me, Son, I'm every place.

Author Anonymous