This Spring I planned on loading up the dogs and hitting the road in my trailer. I wanted to meet good people doing good things in our communities, and offer help — a video, photos, or maybe just a conversation. And then I would share those stories with you. It would be called On the Road for Good.
It’s a dreary day in Western Washington. Rain, showers, drizzle, squall, cats, dogs — call it what you want. It’s drab. I’m farm sitting for a friend, and took a morning stroll with the dogs around her property. Everywhere I looked, dashes of color — yellow daffodils, claiming their ground. Some are alone. Others have buddies. They are staring at the ground and fighting through fences. Some are waiting for friends to show up. Others, for the weight of the world to lift.
For all my friends who are struggling right now, I offer you these daffodils, symbols of rebirth and new beginnings. You are brilliant and resilient. Claim your ground. Beauty takes root in the most humble places.
In memory of J. Allan Berglund Feb. 9, 1934 - Sept. 19, 2018
Dear Dad,
Living out of a suitcase never appealed to you. You preferred comfort - Rice Krispies in the morning, a perfectly organized sock drawer, and air conditioners. I know it was hard for you to understand my yearning for travel. “Don’t you get tired of it all? Ecuador one day? Cambodia the next?” I know I gave you more than one of those gray hairs. But you wore them well. And deep down, you were proud.
This next big adventure is dedicated to you, Dad. Thank you for building a strong foundation. Thank you for your patience, your worry, and for always welcoming me home. Thank you for holding on a little too long. And thank you for letting go, so I could find my own way.
You taught me that goodness will persist in any situation. That things are never as bad as they seem. We don’t know how our days will unfold, but we should live as best we can with kindness, respect, and gratitude.
Life is good. Time is short. So be grateful…and jump in.
