L U S H

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Lush…the one word which sounds as rich as its meaning. “Lussshhh”…growing luxuriantly. Also, very rich and providing great sensory pleasure.

With relentless pressing, Spring births the effulgent offering of natural drama. A drama which never gets old, but actually becomes more precious with time. As I witness the scintillating wonder of new growth, from seed-to-leaf or sprig-to-flower, I am easily transported to the simple discoveries I made as a child.

Never without a question, I always wanted to (and still do) know “Why is this…?” or “What’s that for?”. No longer a child, I wonder if my curiosity is morphing into apathy. I quickly respond that I am still amazed at “all things bright and beautiful”, as James Harriot noted in the title of one of his books. Therefore, I am happy to announce that my spirit is not being quenched with age nor will it ever be. I concede that the body will break down and the mind may suffer attrition, but the spirit, the soul, will not be rendered obsolete. And, it should never be treated as such (applies to all people).

Kauffman Memorial Garden, Kansas City, MO

Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” transforms a composition of orchestral music into a sensual masterpiece. Each season is represented by a unique and sublime expression from every instrument the great composer has under his direction. The result is mesmerizing as the listener is taken on a journey through time. I liken nature’s annual rhythms with man’s breadth of life, just as Vivaldi correlated music with the four seasons. The final season being just as marvelous as the first.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Kansas City, MO

Peering Thru The Rails

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Do you ever catch yourself peering out of a window (or in this case through wood railings) simply taking-in the scenery laid before you? That is what Carson does quite often, although I believe his real intent is on locating a resident squirrel or two…or three. We have more squirrels per square foot than prey to hunt them. They breed like rabbits, and create a nuisance. However, I do thoroughly enjoy watching the little ones play as they run, jump, twirl around tree trunks and fly from branch to branch.

Carson, our West Highland Terrier, is getting older. Just like me. He still alights from the deck like a crazy canine, but he is slowing a bit. This begs mentioning the blown knees he has endured-of which one had total reconstructive surgery. He is now a Platinum dog, if you catch my meaning. I, too, have had my share of setbacks which is not unusual for humans getting older.

For the young who may read this post, I was once young and agile, and oh…so daring. I won’t even talk about the stupid, but bravado acts I used to do when I was more virile. However, the spark is not gone: not by any means. It has flickered, though, for the past few years. Too many deaths, poor health issues, and negative job situations eventually take their toll. Besides, age coupled with experience changes us all. If young, you will found out. If older, you know what I am talking about.

Some people learn and grow, in spite of their personal issues, while some never seem to learn. These type of folk frustrate me the most…those who keep on doing stupid stuff that should have been mothballed twenty years ago or more. I can do nothing more than hope and pray that something (like a rock falling on their head) awakens them!

Today, we end the month on my beloved wife’s birthday. No man should ever be so lucky as I am. Not only did I wed the princess of my dreams, but have managed to hang onto to her for, oh, so long. I don’t deserve such a blessing. Should you ever find yourself wondering if endearing yourself to a mate for the duration of your life is worth it…just ask me and I will talk all night as to why it is so.