The power of brilliant moments
A scene along River Road in Woodstock, Vt., on Monday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The late afternoon sun is setting a bit earlier these days, reminding me that the first sparkle of light on a sunny day is a precious moment. Many of us miss that first glimmer of brilliance, edging its way over the hills until subtlety gives way to splendor.
That last part, the splendor filling the sky, is what we remember most. But the entire display begins with one ray of light, leading to many. That single ray is powerful enough to illuminate any point of darkness, because it’s never separate from the greater light source.
Stunning, ever-present illumination filled the Ottauquechee River corridor on Monday afternoon, as my wife and I walked the dog along River Road in Woodstock. I felt life coursing through the landscape, from the squirrel scampering up a tree, and the birds soaring over the water, to runner and cyclists enjoying same stretch of road. Plants glimmered in the sun, even in the forest shadows along the road, catching what light they could. We felt the gentle breeze passing by as it moved the plants and tree branches nearby. Reaching a stone wall, the view opened up to a wider scene with the river and surrounding landscape, seamlessly existing together, seasoned partners through decades of changes.
Indeed, though change comes and goes, there still are many expressions of good in the world, like the progress of a river current, or the strength of roots underground giving life a firm foundation. Some of those expressions are seen, others unseen. Some deeds receive public reward, while others quietly move forward outside of the spotlight. We may not always see goodness in its most conspicuous forms, but it is still powerful, persistent, and existing among us. Even its smallest expressions carry profound meaning, though they may struggle sometimes to be noticed. Whatever is happening today, we should remember that even the faintest glimmers of light can grow, top the dark hills, and fill the sky of tomorrow.
— Gareth Henderson
