Silver Linings

Silver linings are everywhere. You just have to look for them.

by Mala

I had to go to the vet yesterday to get an allergy shot because I’m itchy again. Going to the vet is one of my least favorite things. I get scared and shake even though the appointment only takes a few minutes.

In the spirit of looking for the silver lining, the good part of having to go to the vet is that sometimes Mom has time to take me for a walk along the creek at O’Fallon Park, which is just down the road from the vet’s office. Yesterday was one of those days.

Tessie came with us because she has serious cabin fever after how rainy it has been lately. Mom knew we both really needed to get out. She needed it, too. This was the perfect opportunity because the sun was shining and the sky was blue.

We can’t complain too much because, after a lack of snow this winter, Colorado needs the rain to stave off wildfires. We’re just not used to such gloomy weather for so many days in a row. The temperature has been unseasonably low, and precipitation in May was significantly above average. All this foul weather means fewer outings than usual.

While things may not always go your way, it’s important to look for the bright side in whatever is true for you in the present moment. After all, the present is all you have – we can’t go back to how things were, and the future isn’t here yet. Wanting either of those things can leave you feeling unhappy. Identify aspects of your life that bring you joy and focus on those. Remember that your daily actions shape your life.