We’ve had 11 so-called atmospheric rivers this winter. Being in a severe drought, with many dry wells around us, the rain is a blessing. On the mountains, new records of total snowfall are about to be set.

Still, the constant rain can get a fella sort of itchy to get moving outside. Yet, still recovering from hernia surgery, I have been limited in what I can do, rain or shine.

Today, however, the sun was out, a beautiful 60 degree day and I walked 10,000 steps for the first time in a month while I did a little yard work and fence repair – staying under the strict order not to lift anything heavier than 10 pounds.

As I walked out to the far back fence, the grass was turning green and the ground was soft and a bit spongy- perfect for bad knees. Out of nowhere, well maybe not nowhere, the thought struck me, “I am walking on Earth.”

Now that probably sounds odd. However, I had a feeling of deep gratitude. This earth, so far as the universe has been searched and researched, seems uniquely beautiful and comfortable and bountiful and… I get the privilege of walking upon it.

I have certainly been awestruck by nature many times, but I can’t remember ever feeling so grateful, joyful, that I…get…to…walk…to live…on this beautiful planet and I am sharing that experience with all sorts and types of plants and creatures. And, as if that is not enough, at night the stars sing a sacred hymn, a chant-like chorus, while we look above in wonder, which is then followed by the hopefulness of a new sunrise. I get to walk, my feet securely to the ground, on what might be the most beautiful planet in all of creation. All I can say is …Amen (truth)