It happened again. I was working in my new office for the first time this morning doing something I love for my investment Clients and myself when a chorus of bird songs caused me to stop and listen through my open windows at their “It’s great-to-be-alive message.” I don’t speak bird, and can’t swear that’s what they were singing, but their songs are so delightful that I’ll bet my interpretation is fairly close.
I looked up to see my tiny grove of redwood trees swaying to the timeless rhythm of the wind’s caress. The invisible visitor even took a moment to say hello with a gentle kiss to my face.
The redwoods proudly sported the lighter green needles of new growth which contrasted so handsomely against their darker more experienced brethren.
I felt the pleasant warmth of our faithful dog Sadie as she lay at my bare feet, her black coat gently tickling my toes.
I was engulfed with immense gratitude to be able to experience it all in my office while I did what I love without having or needing a boss or commute. I know that many people dream of retirement and I can understand why, but as for me, I’ve been retired, and this is so much better.
In that moment, as I simmered in those thoughts, I asked myself how much money it would take to get me to give it all up and go back to work in a regular office with a boss and a commute doing something I didn’t love. I couldn’t think of a large enough number.
May your days be filled with blessings.
With Love,
Russ
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
What a beautiful moment!
I agree. It makes me wonder how many such moments I miss when I get too focused on other things.
You have found your joy!
Bliss even!
You are one lucky man, enjoying what you do , where you do it and having additional nature concerts. The best job in the world. Do you need an assistant in your office – I am good in listening and enjoying the moment too 🙂 enjoy the moments as they are arising!
Thank you, Ute. You already assist, support and encourage me in many ways. I’d likely enjoy working even more closely together with you but think your commute would be horrendous. ;-D!
🙂 indeed , thank you, love to be helpful ! ♥
this sounds absolutely perfect, and your gratitude shines through –
It felt perfect to me. Thank you for your feedback, my friend.
It’s not just that you have that wonderful vision and lifting sounds Russ, it’s that you have the wisdom to look and listen. I’m happy for you.
Thank you for your kind message, Colleen. I appreciate the compliment.
I feel your joy, Russ! I am right with you on working at a job I didn’t enjoy…there isn’t a figure worth trading the freedom of being able to take those moments when they come into view. It’s the simple things that bring me the greatest joy.
I’m convinced that joyous lives are often the simplest. I’m happiest when I let the complicating stuff melt away and just focus on the rest and be grateful for it.
me too!
Birds can be so nice and lovely and so annoying at the same time, just my thought
Crows sometimes fall into the latter category to me. They seem to be the local bullies and scare some other birds away.