Chores come before going out this morning, well after sunrise.

The marsh is bright, tinged with gold. It's a place I stop this morning and ask 

What are these walks, these pictures I make of them, what is this time and attention for - why spend it? if not to learn how to grow and change today.

An answer is, pay attention. Today, I intend to practice generosity, kindness, understanding. To think before speaking. By this I mean keep an open mind. Be aware of possibilities for goodness, grace. What unseen but terribly important mystery is above, below, inside?

What if I encounter every person I meet today, as lovingly and appreciatively as I do this blue sky river reflecting, these golden and fiery leaves of autumn, this favorite friend on the river's edge, this mushroom pushing pushing all the leaves out of her way to stand up! What if I discover and express what I deeply appreciate about human beings I come into contact with today?