“Not a day goes by that I don’t still need to remind myself that my life is not just what’s handed to me, nor is it my list of obligations, my accomplishments or failures, or what my family is up to, but rather it is what I choose, day in and day out, to make of it all. When I am able simply to be with things as they are, able to accept the day’s challenges without judging, reaching, or wishing for something else, I feel as if I am receiving the privilege, coming a step closer to being myself. It’s when I get lost in the day’s details, or so caught up in worries about what might be, that I miss the beauty of what is.”
― Katrina Kenison, The Gift of an Ordinary Day: A Mother’s Memoir
I’ve been thinking about Katrina Kenison’s wonderful memoir entitled The Gift of an Ordinary Day a lot this week after a recent conversation with a friend. With April break upon us, some are leaving town for fancy and exotic destinations while others are staying local. This friend seemed a little down when she revealed to me that money was tight this year, and they wouldn’t be headed away. Kenison’s story is for every mother in my estimation, but it is timely this week in particular for anyone wishing they were headed to the beaches of St. Barth’s or the bistros of Paris with their families. Her memoir will bring you to tears, and provide you with the perfect reminder that the greatest gift is often found in the most ordinary days. Look for the silver lining at every turn in the road if you can. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
