Beauty Rises with the Morning.

All summer I have had the privilege to live in a place where mountains, lush pine, and a beautiful mixture of clouds and blue sky as my backdrop. Ah, the Colorful Colorado. I had never experienced such consistent "beauty" as I define beauty in nature. Every time I glanced at the mountains just outside of the Denver area, it seemed to hit a different angle, and I praised God every time the sun hit a fresh perspective of the picturesque view.

Yes, I do miss these moments of grandeur.

Now, coming back to Nebraska, what we folk like to call "The Good Life" which I've heard should be translated into "It's a Whole-Lotta Nothin'", or "It's Freaking Cold Here" about mid-January, has been a change in the scenery. I haven't necessarily had an awful attitude about the lack of spectacular hiking and fishing opportunities in the state (maybe just the humidity) but I haven't been truly looking, either.

Just yesterday morning I was running right when the sun was coming up. I had no headphones in my ears and was looking for some renewing in the silence. I knew that I would feel refreshed but what I wasn't expecting to experience was a breathtaking view.

 (Much like this one- with the windmill and everything. I promise!)

I was taken aback to the point where I stopped running, which says a great deal (sadly) if you know me. I had this desire to just thank God right there at that specific place and I suddenly felt guilty for not knowing this gorgeous view existed just down the road from me every single morning.

I have always had a good relationship with mornings and find nothing more satisfying then some early-riser quiet time or a jog. Yesterday was different then other "great" mornings because I felt as if the presence of God was in the colors draping the sky, subtly reminding me: 

"Kristin, you don't have to look for me. I'm right here."

I also was compelled to begin looking for beauty: What is beauty, really? 

Is it those moments where you least expect to experience that glimpse of pure, simple enchantment? 

Do I have to wait for something big to happen that I can see in order to appreciate its value? 

Or is their exquisite opportunity surrounding me always, I just think I know what I am supposed looking for? 

These are the questions that have left me challenged. I do find it interesting I had to wake up in order to see this exquisite reminder in my own backyard.

 Maybe I just need to wake up. 

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."-Psalm 90:14