Beauty in our little corner

By Sharon Sannerud

Relaxing in our new home in our corner of the world, the wind is howling, birds are singing, and trees are starting to show a tint of green. I began to get excited for spring as it is showing itself to me. Our spring awakens the beauty of so many things. Instead of listening to all of the horror in the world at this time in our lives, I am trying to look for beauty in all we can see from our little corner.

As I began the day by taxi driving for my husband, I pointed out the most gorgeous sunrise, taking its own shape. The birds greet us with their beautiful voices, reminding us of how little these creatures are and how far they have flown to enter our territory. The river is running fast as we listen to the different sounds of its life in wonderment of where this water will be of help to someone in need. Yes, there are situations which will be harmed by the current of the river for which we have no control, but sitting on the riverbanks, sketching, or silently watching the pelicans arriving to show us their magic, it is part of our little corner.

I went outside to check out the tall grasses as they become a hiding place for creatures soon. Yes, the creatures have their place also. They have their own beauty, but I prefer to keep my distance. The children are carefree and full of laughter as they go about their play. They also have so many new things to touch, places to run free, and just enjoy nature at its best. Their laughter fills me with happiness.

I enjoy planting a few seeds or plants as it is a simple way to look at nature’s beautiful landscapes. Other plants surprise us with their ability to pop out of the ground in a glorious way to add so much beauty to all of us. I love all the cloud formations in the sky.

Today as I listen to the howling wind, I look at the bare trees and the tall worn grasses soon to pop out with new growth of green, what a beautiful time we have the privilege of enjoying for free.

Reminiscing about all those past years of our golden era, it is fun to sit outside, listening to music, sketching, relaxing by a bonfire, having an old-fashioned picnic of fried chicken, hotdishes, salads, and pie, while the men played horseshoe or the families played softball. These things can still become a reality in our corner of Minnesota. Thanks be to God.