by Tommia Wright

To look out into the distance, one can wonder what is over the next horizon, see the differences between horizons, or be content with what is within one’s own realm.

It is an inevitable question, it seems by those who claim to know you well just as another year is marked off in the measure of life: “Are you happy?”  In terms of what? In what we have or in what we wish we had? In where we’re at or in longing to be somewhere else? In terms of the people surrounding us now, then, when?

One friend pointed out that the problem with those who claim the grass is greener on the other side seem to know this only by looking down at the ground, not appreciating what surrounds them in the present.

Whatever happened to looking up or to climbing beyond the troubles at hand for a new perspective?

From a higher vantage point, one can see the changes in the horizon, the coloring of the clouds, the darkening or brightening of the skies. What may be a significant downpour one minute could be clearing the way for a gorgeous rainbow the next. Weather, like situations -good, bad, neutral, come in patterns and have a purpose. How we prepare with our given talents at hand, be it against a chilling wind or a burning sun, a white blanket descending or dustbowl whirling up – that’s what makes us unique.

Looking out into the distance, a spectrum of colors all around, treasure those around you now, keeping in mind those who have passed you by and those whom you’ve yet to meet. Those who care most are those who go beyond the ‘fair weather friend’ mode.