Things are Blooming

As my oldest daughter's Bat Mitzvah approaches I feel some sense of time passing and yet being present too.
Each day is a gift.

It's amazing to be a part of and witness others being a part of a tradition and walking in the foot steps of others.

This past weekend brought up another moment to remember and take in this sense of time.

Saturday was the date my Dad passed away 5 yrs ago.
In conjunction with this, Sunday was my youngest daughter's 5th grade class trip to Ellis Island.
My youngest and I went to New York City and saw the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
I felt immense joy at being able to see the Statue of Liberty again.
Years ago, my family (Walds) met with our cousins in New York City to visit the Statue of Liberty.
I remember walking up the narrow staircase. – the elevator was out of order.
Dad was determined to guide me and my sisters up.  I was right behind him.  He would continuously encourage us to keep going.  We got to the crown.  I remember standing next to Dad and looking out the crown's windows out over New York Harbor.  It was so special.

Sunday, I got to share my joy and excitment with my youngest daughter. As the Ferry passed the Statue of Liberty, we admired her.

What an amazing statue she is.
Her tall structure is a powerful presence.  A presence that enbodies the Hope and Freedom she stands for.    Her flame shone in the sunlight.

The Statue of Liberty is a true amazing work of art...  a work of art that stirs and moves the spirit within us all.
Many have passed before her at the end of their voyage to America. They had strong feelings and often cried at the site of her.  Many have found her the inspirational sign they were looking out for.

May we shine in our own ways as we move through our own lives.