Animal, Nature, and Travel: Sunset Inspiration

When staring at a beautiful sunset, what comes to your mind? This was the inspiration I received when I stared at a past 2011 East Tennessee sunset.

If a Sunset could talk, what would it say?

Introduction: They say a picture can say a thousand words. Don’t worry. This blog will not be that long. As you gaze at this series of three pictures of a sunset taken in East Tennessee on the 16th of February 2011, what does it say to you?

FYI - This was something I wrote back in 2011. But as I read through these words, it reminds me again of how very much I have to be grateful for.

An additional FYI – Viewing a sunset or another aspect of nature is almost like taking a mental journey. In your mind’s eye or in the deepest region of your mind or heart, you might react rather poetically or feel particularly inspired. So given that disclaimer, so to speak, every now and then, this blog will include articles such as these.

Nature's Notes: Sunset Inspiration

This is what it said to me. In other words, these are the thoughts it inspired me to think, write, and share.

Peace. Peaceful.

Peacemaking. Peacemaker.

Rest. Repose.

Gratitude. Grateful. Thank you.

Love. Life. God’s gift to us.

Go in Peace.

Breathe in as you read those words again. PEACE. Savor the picture in your mind’s eye.. Breathe out.

Breathe in as you think about what it means to be PEACEFUL and how being peaceful feels. Breathe out.

Breathe in as you think about what it means to be a peacemaker, peacemaking, a maker and co-creator of peace. Breathe out.

Breathe in as you think the words “Thank you.” Think about all the things you have to be grateful for. There is much to inspire gratitude in this world like the delight of a sunset – however brief. Breathe out.

Breathe in as you contemplate God’s love for us, the life He blesses us with, and all the other gifts from God that we are a direct beneficiary of. Breathe out.

Once again, breathe in as you contemplate the wonder of being peaceful, feeling peaceful, experiencing the perfect peace and wonder of God’s love for you, His beloved child.

What is the moral of this monologue?

This is the lesson, the moral of this beautiful sunset. It is too easy to default to being too busy to take the time to really breathe and really see and savor a beautiful sunset or a flower or a puffy cloud. These are all blessings from God. It is His way of giving you a mental hug, an attaboy hooray for a job well done, a special greeting as you are touched by His extraordinary grace.

Have a very peaceful day. Hug someone you love – either mentally or physically. Remember to make time to take those deep, calming breaths at special moments throughout the day or night.

Go … in … peace. Adieu. Bon Voyage. Good-bye.