Moments of Celebration

The receiver catches the long pass for an impossible score.  The crowd erupts!  Sometimes, I jump up and cheer.  There is screaming until I’m hoarse and clapping and dancing that goes with this kind of revelry. 

A tooth fairy visit, a found book, a completed sticker chart or an amazing grade warrant an actual, “AHA!” or “yesss!” The merriment bounces out of my mouth with a hug and a high five or fist bump.

But then, there are the quiet celebrations, when dreams are realized, or broken lives are restored.  Silent, happy tears fall, then and my breath catches.

To celebrate.  Each moment different, but each celebration true. 

Spring feels like celebration – warm and new.  I examine the ground for tiny sprouts and color telling me it’s almost time.  My heart soars as daylight stretches from morning commute to evening commute.  Birthdays will be celebrated, the school year will close, days will get warmer, time will continue. 

Lord, my God, I pray.  Let me not lose track of the moments.  Let me celebrate each one. 

In the morning when I rise….

Thank you for breath, for waking, for rising.  Lord, thank you that each day is a gift.  Open my eyes to notice Your Good.  Open my mouth and heart to share your joy.  Remind me to praise. 

In the afternoon when I pause….

Thank you for the kindness of those around me today.  Thank you for placing me here. 

In the evening when I’m home again….

Thank you for our home – for shelter and a safe place.  Thank you for bringing each of us home again. 

When the day is done….

Thank you for a day complete.  Thank you for a physical place to lay my head and for a place to rest my soul – in your everlasting arms. 

Celebration. 

Hugs and blessings, Bethany