Our friend Thomas is a keen gardener, and it is always a great joy to walk around his garden. Recently, I was admiring some beautiful double chrysanthemums he had on show.
“Yes, they’re fine,” he agreed, but seemed to hesitate as he said it. I waited for him to continue. “Yes, there have been some wonderful developments—new varieties and all the rest of it. Yet sometimes, you know, I think we brush aside too easily the simple types, the single flowers with their delicate perfection.” And he led me across the lawn and pointed out just such an example.
No one, I think, would want to lose some of the wonderful developments which man’s skill and care has brought to all kinds of things, but I think we need to remem- ber Rudyard Kipling’s prayer, “Teach us delight in simple things. ... ” --Francis Gay
Possessions, outward success, public- ity, luxury—to me these have always been contemptible. I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best for the body and the mind.
—Albert Einstein
It was God who created the simple pleasures and joys of life for us to enjoy. He made our bodies and our senses to be able to look upon and enjoy things which are beautiful, to taste things which are de- licious, to hear beautiful music, to feel nice things that we touch, and to smell the beautiful perfume of a flower or even of a delicious meal that is cooking.
—Unknown
Apraiseful heart can find joy in so many things—learning a skill, walk- ing through the woods, meeting a friend, viewing a beautiful sight, cooking a good meal, giving a gift, teaching a child, help- ing someone in need, finding ways to serve, discovering a new truth, appreci- ating an old one, reaching out to God in prayer, passing His love on in little or big ways. There are so many things in life to be happy about—simple things, little things, joyous things, precious things.
Jesus, please help us to seize each op- portunity for enjoyment of all You’ve given us. Help us to see all the sparkles You’ve put in our path and to not fail to thank You for them, knowing that they and You are what make life wonderful.
—Chloe West
