November 20, 2024

Gratitude

As I got closer to retirement, I became more mindful that I am fortunate.

On a recent Saturday I shuttled my oldest – who’s in college – to New York City for a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. After meeting with their professor at the entrance, students headed off to discover this amazing place for the first time.

I was left to explore on my own.

I knew exactly where to go, having been to the Met many times. Yet it had been years since my last visit, and in hindsight, that was a real shame.

As I rediscovered artworks that spoke to me most, marveling at every detail, I was moved. Here was timeless beauty. Paintings known the world over that have delighted and influenced countless people. At the Met, one can get pretty close to these historic works, to observe every brushstroke and element of their compositions.

I was filled with gratitude. Here I was enjoying artwork, in the midst of so much turmoil in the world outside the museum’s doors.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to introduce the Met and other wonders to my kids. Here’s hoping that along with their peers they too will be inspired to bring beauty into the world. ◼️