July 2, 2026
I like to lie still when I first awaken, listening. Eyes closed, I hear various sounds in a melody of familiar noises as my wife stirs, the dog bumps the bed, bacon sizzles in the kitchen as Cindy makes coffee. Maybe there’s a soft breeze in the trees outside. It is a pleasant routine, evolving during the year as seasons change. That got me thinking how mornings change during life. Anticipating, first, school and later your job as you start the day. Family trips to plan, and after retirement long-delayed chores waiting. No children making noises anymore. Maybe doctor appointments. For me, no more jet noises as during my Navy cruises on an aircraft carrier 55 years ago. Now it’s chickens clucking at the neighbor’s place.
The aroma of fresh coffee prompts me to arise with a grunt. My body’s hinges aren’t as spry as when I could bound out of bed, but I stretch and amble over to comb my remaining hair. Ah, it’s wonderful then getting hugs from my wife and the pets, a new-found routine to start the day. We married late in life, but I am grateful to have her. In the winter she’s started the woodstove and then brings me coffee. Life obviously has its burdens and losses, but happy changes, too. Certainly, memorable ones, as these mornings are. Thank you, God.
What familiar sounds do you hear each morning? Some of us, like my wife, may jump up to start the day, but we first might lie there enjoying the quiet, the morning light creeping in. Whether sharing it with someone or not, it is worth noticing and rejoicing in. Life changes all the time and will not ever return in quite the same way. Savor each day; It is God-given. One day, for every one of us, it will be utterly different, unknown in its features but more wonderful than we can yet know. Probably without coffee or bacon, but still good. Thank you in advance, God.
