Flying with a surprise

When I went home in July I saw this beautiful flower in my parents' yard. My dad had planted it. Of course he could not tell me its name. But I still marveled at its beauty. It was completely unexpected. Usually I see a lone stalk of corn, honeysuckle, or a sweet potato vine in the front yard. Rarely do I see something this breathtaking. 

Each day holds a surprise. But only if we expect it can we see, hear, or feel it when it comes to us. Let's not be afraid to receive each day's surprise, whether it comes to us as sorrow or as joy It will open a new place in our hearts, a place where we can welcome new friends and celebrate more fully our shared humanity.

Henri Nouwen