Serendipity

Have you ever walked through a day eagerly anticipating those moments when you might be surprised by joy? Moments like—

Absorbing the pure delight bubbling forth in a child’s peal of laughter.

Fluffy white clouds floating through the sky and noticing how one looks just like your favorite animal.  It causes you to smile.

A friend remembered how your favorite flowering bulb was a tulip, and she sent hundreds of them your way for fall planting.  Now they will bloom to be enjoyed for many years to come.

The love notes written to you from a child, and all the accompanying drawings that will hang on the refrigerator for months to come.

Then, there is yet another friend who recognizes the way you pine over missing the wildflowers blooming during the spring in Texas. Now living thousands of miles away, she thoughtfully sends a bouquet of your beloved bluebonnets, consciously helping to bridge the gap over the many, many miles.

Finally, it is opening the mailbox to see a brightly colored envelope. Your heart leaps because you recognize the handwriting. You know exactly who it’s from and that it holds a message of thoughtfulness and love.

Or, it’s the crisp air in the morning, along with autumn colors bursting forth within the leaves of trees. All of this proclaims the hope and promise of an upcoming change in season.

It can also be in the unexpected knock at the door. A friend stands on the other side of the doorway and holds out a steaming cup of coffee. She extends an invitation to grab some time together.

Lastly, it’s your adolescent child unexpectedly turning to wrap you in a hug and then hearing her say, “I sure love you.” 

Or, it’s that quiet moment, when a hush falls on the house, and the only responsibility before you is to hug a soft blanket and relish a good book.

These are all moments of serendipity.  Happy accidents that are joyful surprise gifts within any given day.