Monday morning blossoms

Nature is full of miracles. At night, when it is dark, the lotus flower sinks underwater into the mud. With light, it rises up through the murk and mire, into the sunshine, where it rapidly bursts into bloom, then sheds its petals.... such a metaphor for growth and surrender - the dank, muddy nights paving the way toward big, bold beauty, unfurling within the warm, adoring spotlight of sunshine.

This Monday morning found me running along the trails of Glenwood Gardens, nestled between Glendale and Woodlawn, following the signs to the "Lotus Pond" in full bloom. Although it was slightly cumbersome, I ran the 1st 2 miles with my camera on my wrist, so I might capture the morning wonder.

I like to mix it up - I'm in training for the marathon, yes.... but in the grander scheme, I'm in training for eternity - and nature offers profound lessons, when we seek - and honor - them.