Simply Who You Are…

September 27, 2026: My morning walk in gratitude… Simply Who You Are… What a beautiful Sunday morning on the pier. The ocean was calm, the clouds stretched across the sky, and before long, here came the wings. Those flybys never get old. There is something so special about watching them come toward me, knowing they recognize me and are excited that I’m there. What once might have seemed like such a small moment has become one of the most meaningful parts of my days. My little buddy came to say hi. He may have only one little foot now, but his resilience is bigger than anything he has lost. He keeps showing up, keeps adapting, and keeps reminding me that life can change us without taking away our spirit. Moo stopped by with that happy little face, Pegleg made sure to say hello, and the pigeons lined themselves along the railing as if they were waiting for Sunday morning roll call. Then, out on the water, the pelicans were having their own little meetup. Apparently everyone had plans at the pier this morning. Today’s message feels especially fitting: “First, it’s an intention. Then, a small action. Then, a daily choice. Then, a habit you return to. Then, it’s second nature. Then, it’s simply who you are.” I think so much of life happens exactly this way. Gratitude begins with noticing one thing. Kindness begins with one small choice. Caring begins with one simple action. You repeat it tomorrow, and then the next day, until eventually you’re no longer trying to live that way. It has simply become part of who you are. This morning was another reminder that the smallest things can become some of the biggest parts of our lives. A bird flying toward you. A happy dog saying hello. Pelicans floating together on the water. Sunlight sparkling across the ocean. Nothing extraordinary required. Just open eyes, an open heart, and the willingness to notice. So grateful for another beautiful Sunday morning filled with ocean, resilience, familiar little faces and, of course, wings. Capturing beauty, sharing light. —April