Wednesday, January 1, 2025, 38* Raining
I could clearly see stars on a black velvet sky, but no sign of Northern Lights on 2024's last night. The air too cool, I went inside to bed, to begin reading “If You Lived Here, You’d Be Home Now.” I was aware of dreaming while reading, strange, between two-worlds sensation. Closed the book. Turned off the light. Don’t remember what I’d been dreaming.
While I was sleeping, as if to wash away the stain of yesterday, of last night, of the days gone before, as if to start over, as we have for the last 365 days and more, January one arrived raining. It took away eight inches of snow that came December 24 --a winter storm without a name. It did not take the memory; some edging of snow still remains.
January one, one day in a succession, numbered but not by me. It is a faithful awakening from darkness, for a while awakening still in darkness. It is a day of new beginnings. It is a day of carried memories. How far we’ve come through our numbered days each one a faithful waking from darkness into a changed life. I have no goals, no five-year plans. One moment at a time is enough earth-shaking.
As I write, rain pushes softly against windowpanes. Not a comfort to three dogs crowding inside the door this pouring morning waiting for a warm towel, for their turn to be dried. In silence, in a room without lights, they wait for my touch, watch my eyes. All three wanting what people want – to be noticed, to feel special, to be loved.
May we all go gently into this moment, into each moment that is given.
May we feel the connection looking into an animal’s eyes.
May we know the peace of being alone, of being alive.
May we seek and remember the teachings of our guardians, angels, ancestors and guides.
I Love You.
Photo: LJ Austin
