mini-miracles

It’s so easy to get into a rut this time of year. The January Blahs, I call it. Grey, dreary skies, the post-holiday blues, temperatures dipping below zero, some of the shortest days of the year (yes, longer than in December, but not by much), nasty, dirty slush everywhere–all of these things add up to one crummy mood. So I just trudge along, each day blending into the next. 

And in the process, I completely miss the beauty in the world because I am wandering around with blinders on, unable to see the miracles happening all around me.  Because there are miracles, and beauty, even in January. We just have to pay attention.

You can become blind by seeing each day as a similar one. Each day is a different one, each day brings a miracle of its own. It’s just a matter of paying attention to this miracle.–Paulo Coelho 

My miracles today? My cocker spaniel coming over and snuggling with me when I started to cry over the loss of my Uncle Al, who died last week. A super nice compliment from the teacher of my online still photography class. My amazingly wonderful husband who actually listens when I need to talk, and somehow instinctively knows when I need a hug. Our backyard looking fresh and pretty with a coating of new snow, and our house feeling so cozy.

What were your mini-miracles (or big miracles) today? 

Author: Barbara Marincel

My spiritual journey is all about finding the grace in the messiness of the everyday and the not so everyday. I’m a chaplain intern who loves writing and and photography. I’m also a Benedictine Oblate of St. John’s Abbey in Collegeville, MN. My creative inspirations include nature, good books, Lake Superior, my flower garden, and my faith. More than anything, I cherish spending time with friends and family. View all posts by Barbara Marincel