Balloons rising……..

When was the last time you saw balloons rising into the air? I’ll bet it was a birthday or retirement party. Balloons are associated with celebration. The morning I shot this image at Sun n’ Fun air show in Lakeland, Florida I was celebrating something very special, another day. It never ceases to amaze me how few people, relish every day as a celebration! I know what you’re thinking, if I had your job I’d feel celebrative too…. Well give me a minute to explain this to a little deeper level.

First, I’m here, on this side of the grass. Yes I’m celebrating being alive, I love life, I love everything about being right here, right now. Last night my son Wesley brought our two grandchildren over for a short visit, my grand daughter Abigail was sitting next to me at the kitchen island, in the middle of her playing with Play-Doh she reached over and patted my arm, leaned her precious little head against my chest and said,” I love you papa”. Enough said.

Second, I’m not afraid of death, not in the least, I have much to look forward too upon that day.
While life is wonderful, death means an eternity with my Lord, how could I be afraid of that. I know many have a lot of trouble believing in an afterlife, I’m not one of them. I’ve been assured by my Lord that it is so, and that’s good enough for me.

Third, I’m married to the woman, I never thought I could marry. She is beautiful, intelligent,
a great friend, a wonderful mother, and grandmother. She is my best friend, the person I most want to spend my life with. If that were not enough, she loves football, and puts up with me.

Fourth, I work with a great group of friends. While we are all different and have our own lives when we are together we make the most of every experience. I truly admire all their talents and skills, but more than that, I really like them as people. I’ve learned from each and every one.

Last, and most important, by grace and only grace I’ve been forgiven and given a new life, for here and for eternity.

How’s that for a list?

Now, over the weekend start making your own list and then when you see just how great you have it, let some balloons go……

the pilgrim

*Photo Note: Nikon D700, 24-70 f2.8, f16 @ .7 seconds, ISO 200.