Happiness

“Happiness is a direction, not a place.” is one of my favourite quotes by Sydney J Harris.  The quote underscores what I know to be true in my life and never more true than at this time of my life.

I have resigned from one of my contracts.  The feeling of release was instantaneous.  I have loved the work and the team but the job offer came three years too early.  Grasping at a future that would see me comfortable in semi-retirement, tired me emotionally, physically and spiritually.  The decision made, I am where I used to be.  I am, once again, facing in the right direction.

Despite the hectic travel schedule I have learned to enjoy my environment and to see something new each visit.  My camera has given me this gift.

On a recent trip to Exmouth, I decided to walk along the shore at sunrise.  The beach, at first glance, is typical of the coast of northern Western Australia.  Balmy, clean, beautiful.  But, it was the stark simplicity that made me look more closely.  I found coral tassels, pristine seagull feather, perfect excavation by a tiny creature, a lace covered coral nugget, coral eggs and a coral branch, coloured rocks scattered like petals in my path and hearts made of stone, some broken, now softened and mended by the sea.  Dare I say I could not resist bringing some of these treasures home.

I am rugged up in a fierce storm.  Winter is saying goodbye.  There is a clump of snowdrops at my doorstep.  How such delicate flowers withstand the ferocity of high winds is beyond my comprehension.  But, they have survived the last few days.  And, I know, so will I.

As I’ve said before, it is in the midst of winter, we look forward to spring.

May you find your direction today.  As did I.

Until next time,

As always,

a dawn bird