August 28, 2026
Morning Reflections
What You Taught Me to See…
This morning felt a little more meaningful because today is my mom’s birthday.
As I walked onto the pier, the sun was rising over the water, the ocean was peaceful, and my feathered friends were already waiting. Before long, there were wings everywhere, flying toward me and circling beneath that beautiful morning sky.
And I found myself thinking about where my love for all of this began.
My mom.
She gave me so many things, but one of the gifts I treasure most is my love of nature and birds. She taught me to notice them, to appreciate the little things around me, and to understand how much joy can be found simply by paying attention.
Maybe that’s why this morning’s message felt especially perfect:
“You are needed in this world.”
On her birthday, I hope my mom knows how true those words are. Her life has shaped mine in ways she may not even realize. Every time I stop for a bird, look up at the sky, watch the waves roll in, or stand still long enough to appreciate a sunrise, a little piece of what she taught me is there.
Today, surrounded by birds and morning light, I’m grateful for another beautiful day, but most of all, I’m grateful for her.
Happy Birthday, Mom. Thank you for teaching me to see the beauty that was there all along.
Capturing beauty, sharing light.
—April
