It's been a long week, for lots of reasons. The upshot is that I didn't post on Sunday, and that I have no photos of any of the knitting I've been doing (Poplar and Elm has a second sleeve, and I'm about six inches into the back).
Today, however, is Imbolc*. Halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, Imbolc reminds me that the light does come back - truly it does! It's also a day that people often post poetry on their blogs, and while I don't usually do that, I thought I would today. This one has been in my mind this week.
Success
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people
And the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation
Of honest critics
And endure the betrayal
Of false friends;
To appreciate beauty,
To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better
Whether by a healthy child,
A garden patch,
Or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life had breathed easier
Because you have lived.
That is to have succeeded.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
*Actually, some years Imbolc is February 1st, some it's February 2nd. I'm sticking with today because it makes me happier.
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14 comments:
From now on, the weeks will be lighter. Fortunately.
I always get excited about the solstice because the light is coming back, but it's right around now that I suddenly start to see that it is really and truly returning. Happy Imbolc!
Emerson is right.
I hope your weeks coming are brighter in many ways.
I know the feeling: we are supposed to be in the hottest month of summer. It has been dark and rainy for so long we are still waiting for the warmth! The temperature is under 20°C (68°F) - it should be up around 35°C (95°F). They are forecasting 20 wet days this month! Erk! I want my summer!!
Hope things get brighter for you.
Imbolic is my b-day and the sun is returning. Happy Imbolic!
Ah, hon, I know it's been a rough one. Beautiful choice of poetry. Sending you happy thoughts, and plenty of
(((Hugs)))
Hugs my friend!! I'm calling you soon, we say it and don't do it. Shame on us. Hang tough and let me know if I can do anything to help. I have some great bottles of red;)
I love Imbolc. It's so energizing it makes me itchy to get out and move and do . . . well, something.
Never saw that poem before. Was Emerson channeling Kipling or t'other way round?
And, most importantly -- may the light be with you in all ways.
Lovely poem, sounds like you need a hug, so I'm sending you a cyber ((hug)). Have a fabulous weekend!
I think R W would find me a total failure. Oh well. I do like his sentiment.
Noo, it's the 2nd! always! No? Rats.
I hope the lengthening days help lighten the load.
Hi~~~ sending you belated bday hugs as well ((( ))))
Thanks for Emerson tonight- it did me good. That, I think, makes you a success.
xo
I agree with Cricket - you are a true success. And the light comes back stronger and longer every day.
I've always loved that poem.
And my resident alpha squirrel (and the ones who think they are) were doing the Cirque de Soleil act to prove to bored females ignoring them that they are buff, tough, and hawk-proof stuff.
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