Like many folks who grew up in this area, I've gotten pretty used to living in air-conditioned comfort during the hot, sticky South Texas summer days. I'm very grateful that we have AC these days, and would definitely miss it if it were to disappear. But I've also become increasingly aware of how much it costs and how much we've lost by closing our windows and doors to the sweltering heat. In the process, we not only close ourselves off from the warmth, but from our environnment and from each other as well.

 

... I think there's something magical about opening those windows during a rainfall or after nightfall, when the cooling breezes come in from the Southeast; something musical about waking up to the sounds of birds stirring in the pre-dawn stillness; something special about sitting in the front porch swing, drinking a slow cup of tea and greeting neighbors out for their early morning walks in the unique coolness that only a summer sunrise brings.

 

... I can't help wanting to urge others to share in the particular pleasures that the summer brings to those who linger outside in the early mornings and late evenings. If that's already part of your lifestyle, you know what I mean. And if not, consider taking a little time sometime this month to go outside, whether early or late, and simply sit doing nothing for a little while.

 

With blessings and gratitude,