Today I celebrate my 31st birthday! I’m so very thankful for God’s perpetual gift of abundant life.

painting by Karen Appleton

Just the other day I was directed to the website of artist Karen Appleton. She began 6 years ago painting gift wrapped presents. Though she ventures to other subjects, she returns always to the gift. She addresses the reason for painting these images and makes this statement:

 I’m not just showing the viewer a beautiful surface, although I definitely hope to achieve that, but the question of what’s inside – inside the box, inside our lives, inside ourselves, is the bigger question I hope to explore.” ~ Karen Appleton

I’m thankful for another year to look inside my life, to explore the good, and make to the needed change in areas where I need improvement. I’m reminded that life is good, even in the presence of pain. For pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. The past two years have been difficult for me, but I’m still here. I continue to learn where true happiness is found and will continue to live a meaningful life surround by mutual and unconditional love. Thank you for your beautiful expressions of love!