[blockquote source=”Paulo Coelho”]”When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to accept our destiny.” [/blockquote]

I saw the first Robins of spring today – perched proudly amongst the highest branches, boldly rejoicing Spring’s final arrival.

And, by the urgency of their loud, lovely trilling, I can only guess – they were desperate for the whole world to share in this, too.

“Get up, get up…she’s here, she’s here…”

My dears, there’s nothing quite as lovely as a Robin ushering Spring.

Imagine feeling this much joy in something so many others take for granted. When something as simple as these passing of seasons, marks the moment of our very own spiritual renewal.

I must admit, I’ve been in such a fog, as of late. You see, my early morning Saturday was shattered by one of my life’s greatest challenges…

And, leaving me in scattered pieces of the me I once used to be…

We want so very much to hide away from these pieces, overwhelmed by the task of pulling them all back into place, once again. But, to be mindful…requires attention, thoughtfulness, consideration…a deeper examination of all that we are and wish to be.

It also requires that we recognize fully all of that which is going on around us.

Blink, and the moment is gone – and with it, the ability to embrace a new truth.

That’s not so easy, now is it? When we feel pain, our instinct is to move our hand from the proverbial flame.

But, even this fire can teach us – and, in these broken pieces, there is a chance to take on new form…

To be…reborn…

When we realize that ‘this cup is already broken’, so to speak – that we, ourselves are already chipped and worn…

My dears, that is the moment when our fear may finally fade. When we recognize the impermanence of it all, then we can settle fully into a deepened appreciation.

The blessing is that we ever had a cup, at all – that we ever had this moment of grace.

The greater challenge is to enjoy this now, while we still have this chance.