Above the clouds is a better day.

"Today was gonna be the day

He'd already wrote the note

And parked that Chevrolet

At the end of that dead end road

Had his finger on the trigger; just about to end everything

He was taking one last long breathe; when he heard his cell phone ring."

There's little doubt that spring is the time to lift your mood; but for some, it doesn't matter what season, day or time of the year it is—when there are dark clouds, it's the same, day-after-day.  

This blog is not to bring you down, it's actually one to remember those who need a call, note, or message, knowing you are out there. Over the many years of my life, I have experienced more than I could have imagined and I didn't always "reach out." 

Life has its challenges—when you see friends going through tough times, any person who really cares, wants to make sure they are accessible to just talk. Whether it's face to face or on the phone, when there's pain, it's amazing what kind/caring words can do. Recently I had a conversation with a former business associate who had lost his job; he is a true friend and I let him know it. Yes he is hurting, and scared as he has gone through change beyond work, but his response was, "You know Mark, I am going to take the week off—my son is on spring break— and I am going to enjoy it." I could not have heard better words.

Sure there's the reality when the week is over, but knowing this person, he will charge forward. 

Now I am one who does not always call, text, or send notes, but I am going to do a better job. Right now there is a lot of change in the air; I know of people who are seeing marriages dissolve, children who are not well, and employment insecurities. It's not fun to see, especially when you have been through it; but sometimes experience can actually help. Today I ran into a friend who has really gone through a tough time with a child. Harder than I could ever imagine nor do I ever want to experience. The stress has been intense, but as a couple she and her husband have stood mightily and now, after a long period of time, they are witnessing improvement. Slow and steady—but improvement. From desperation to belief that this will be conquered.

When I saw this person, a comment was made that she felt bad they had not had us to their home for dinner; I am sure she read my thinking—my mouth literally opened up with nothing to say. (Not normal) I said, "Are you kidding me? Please know I am so happy to hear what you just told me that nothing could ruin it." She smiled. She needed to smile.

The photo above was taken several weeks ago. We had prepared for a trip to Nicaragua and it was actually going quite smooth. We had arrived at the airport early, the check-in line moved along and we were well in advance of the flight—then it happened. We learned both of our youngest daughter's passports had expired. This photo was taken after we realized all hope was lost and we were not going. In other words, it was taken well after the meltdowns and the realization all would be okay. 

Tonight, do someone a favor..call them and tell them our story, I am sure they will get a good laugh. 

Thanks for stopping by.