SILENT REMINDERS

I have a thing for graveyards. Morbid? Maybe. But I am completely drawn to them. The older the better. Someone asked me the other day why I like them so much. I pondered this question for a long time and I came to the conclusion that I like them for many reasons. The first is that they serve as a reminder of our mortality. We are all on the same path, rich or poor, old or young. The result and outcome is the same for each and every one of us. No avoiding it and no exceptions. And it is good to be reminded of that once in awhile. It makes us stop for a moment and reflect on our lives. Graveyards help us to  ensure that we are living our lives to the fullest.

Graveyards also make me feel very small and insignicant. But not in a bad way. In a good one. That I am just a tiny piece of this universe, and that many have walked behind me, and many will walk ahead. We all just share a piece of this planet for a little while. And it makes me feel excited that I've had the chance to be part of it.

Another reason I love them so much is the fact that, when you are walking through the peace and tranquility of a graveyard, all your troubles seem to disappear. Because the simple fact of the matter is, none of it will matter in the end anyway.

You see, I have a philosophy. And its just my view, it doesn't mean any one else should think the way I do because every one is different. But for me, I think what matters the most is happiness. With yourself. With who you are and what you do. For me, it isn't the pursuit of money, or things. Cars or houses. I could have 10 million in the bank, and it wouldn't make a sunset any more beautiful, or a hike through the woods any more serene and peaceful. What brings me joy, is my children, my husband, peace and nature, animals, and great friends and family and a glass of wine at the end of the day. It may be a simple view of life, but its mine, and it makes me who I am. That's not to say life is perfect, and everything is giggles and rainbows. But it does help me tackle those times and moments when everything seems so overwhelming, and problems feel insurmountable.

Graveyards are a peaceful place. Try it some time.