This lake is special to me, since I have spent every summer of my life on its shores, in its refreshingly clear water, and hiking its surrounding mountains. Nearly every excursion up to the lake involves some sort of activity, be it swimming, boating, fishing, gardening, or even renovating our modest lake house. But this trip was different. Reconnecting with an old friend was, for me, a time to look inward. Rather than focusing on the area itself, and the myriad activities we usually engage in, the lake acted more like a backdrop to warm conversations, casual strolls in which we recounted times from our long-ago college days, constant laughter, and observations about our lives--and life in general.
Thinking back on our time together, exchanging family news, reminiscing, and sharing our plans and dreams for the future, I realize how vital our setting was. How the sound of crickets lulled us to sleep at night, and how the early-morning call of birds gently woke us up. The night sky, strewn with endless stars, and the sun setting spectacularly over the mountain range added a lovely dimension to our friendly retreat.
And while it's true that good friends can gather anywhere and enjoy themselves, there's something soul-satisfying to finding a place of natural beauty in which to reunite. It adds immeasurably to the experience. So, this Labor Day weekend, find a peaceful place to share with a friend, even if it's only a cup of tea while sitting beside your backyard pond. Take the time--even a little bit of it--to savor the good things in life, like nature's bounty and the blessing of friendship. Like the summer season itself, life seems to pass so quickly. Enjoy the here and now.
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