I’d like to extend a personal thank you to the wind as we wind down 2009. “Thank you, wind!” Not only did you blow my mind but you continued to create abstract art for me to enjoy. Above is a photograph I shot of a pile of leaves that fell and collected in my yard, just outside my office door.

It wasn’t but a day or two later that these leaves were gone. Cleaned up the yard! A natural thing to do… right? Are we surrounded by beauty and opportunity each day? Do we have the choice to let these daily gifts enhance us or perhaps annoy us?

Do you see the mess in “your” yard? Okay! Can you find any of the beauty?

I’m obviously consumed with “attitude” these days. Let me define how I’m using the word attitude: the posture one elects to go with in order to influence one’s demeanor. I’m working to put a positive spin on my attitude and posturing.

Then go, and consider what you choose to find and see in your yard.

Leonard Cohen, my favorite songwriter, creates lyrics that often leave (no pun intended) me to ponder in my thoughts. I close the door on 2009 with this lyrical excerpt. I’ll open the doors of 2010 with the expectations that I’ve always envisioned through my rose-colored glasses.

Leonard writes:

And come forth from the cloud of anoint
And kiss the cheek of the moon
The New Jerusalem glowing
Why tarry all night in the ruin
And leave no word of discomfort
And leave no observer to mourn
But climb on your tears and be silent
Like a rose on its ladder of thorns