a happy birthday this evening, I sat by an open window and read till the light was gone and the book was no more than a part of the darkness. I could easily have switched on a lamp, but I wanted to ride the day down into night, to sit alone, and smooth the unreadable page with the pale gray ghost of my hand
Interpretation
The quote reflects a serene moment of solitude and the beauty of transitioning from day to night while savoring the experience of reading.
In this quote, Ted Kooser captures a reflective moment of contentment where he chooses to embrace the natural transition from light to darkness instead of artificially prolonging the day. By sitting by an open window and reading until the light fades, he highlights the importance of savoring experiences in their raw form, allowing oneself to fully feel the passing of time and the peacefulness that comes with solitude and introspection.
In practice
During a birthday celebration, I shared this quote to emphasize the joy of simple moments.
Mike Forsberg's images give us bright openings onto a world. . . . Here on the Great Plains both people and trees and everything else are in some way shaped by wind and weather. This book, too, has been shaped by where it comes from, and that's just a part of its beauty.
Now the seasons are closing their files_x000D_ on each of us, the heavy drawers_x000D_ full of certificates rolling back_x000D_ into the tree trunks, a few old papers_x000D_ flocking away. Someone we loved_x000D_ has fallen from our thoughts,_x000D_ making a little, glittering splash_x000D_ like a bicycle pushed by a breeze._x000D_ Otherwise, not much has happened;_x000D_ we fell in love again, finding_x000D_ that one red feather on the wind.
This evening, I sat by an open window and read till the light was gone and the book was no more than a part of the darkness.
Sometimes you sense how faithfully your life is delivered, even though you can't read the address.
Peace and rest at length have come,_x000D_ _x000D_ All the day's long toil is past;_x000D_ _x000D_ And each heart is whispering, "Home,_x000D_ _x000D_ Home at last!"
Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness.
If it makes you happy _x000D_ It can't be that bad _x000D_ If it makes you happy _x000D_ Then why the hell are you so sad
Look, really look, at how beautiful this day is. Let go of the worries and anxieties and judgments, and see the beauty.
Heaven on Earth is a choice you must make, not a place you must find.
Left to my own devices, would I trade this for firm thighs, fewer wrinkles, a better memory? On some days. That's why it's such a blessing I'm not left to my own devices. Because the truth is I have amazing friends and a deep faith in God, to whom I can turn. I have a cool kid, a sweet boyfriend, darling pets. I've learned to pay attention to life, and to listen. I'd give up all this for a flatter belly? Are you crazy?
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