This woman had filled her yard with snow bears. She began with one bear and then just kept making them. Above you can see a mother bear and her two cubs. Here are some more of her creations:
It was mid afternoon when we went to see the snow sculptures and the yard was crowded with parents and children enjoying the bears and having their pictures taken with them. We noticed a box at the edge of the yard. It was an opportunity for people to give a donation to a local charitable organization. Children were happily throwing in coins. The sign said that over $4,500 had been donated so far. At dusk we drove by once more to add our donation to the box. There were just as many children and parents milling about as there had been earlier in the afternoon!
It did not matter to this woman that those beautiful bears she created would be gone once milder weather set in. She was living in the moment, getting some fresh air and exercise and sharing that moment with neighbours, friends, and anyone who wanted to stop to enjoy her bears. At the same time, she was giving people the opportunity to share with others in need. It occurred to me that this is how life should be lived!
There have been times in my life when I have been overwhelmed with grief -- suddenly, unexpectedly. (Those of you who have lost a loved one without warning will understand.) I am tempted to dwell in the past, to try to hang on to what I have lost. Rather, like the creator of the bears, I want to enjoy the moment!
Before long, what I have I cherish;
What might have been, fades away.
And I live again for the moment --
This precious and wonderful day!
(final stanza of a poem I wrote in May 1981, on the day that would have been our son Harold Mark's 12th birthday)
