heart of the matter

My heart is aching for the people of Japan and Libya. And many other places and situations around the world. I don't want that to go unsaid, amidst the happy moments that I am so blessed to experience and that I share here. Twice yesterday, I heard stories of tragedies that people were suffering through, and I literally burst into tears. But you know, the pain in my heart came first; the tears came when I heard about how they handled what they were dealt with such grace and fortitude and how others were so generous, kind, and compassionate. The reason why I appreciate what I have so much is because I am mindful of how fragile it is - how fragile it all is. So by celebrating new lambs, by admiring each snowdrop and crocus, by kissing sweet baby cheeks, playing pretend and taking deep breaths of this lovely Spring air, I am drinking it in and recognizing it for what it is. How temporary and fleeting and beautiful it is. And I am oh, so thankful.