Everyday Abundance

"Money comes in. Money goes out. And you have to live in between."  These words from a burly man named Gus who made and lost money in the fishing industry, has six kids, 14 grandchildren, seven great grandkids and seems to find fun in every day moments. He'd taken us out on a boat, showing us the world class resort community of Miromar Lakes in southwest Florida. We were on vacation; he was working and feeling guilty that he actually makes money doing what he loves to do. "Hard to call this a job," he smiled.

As we (our family group of nine) toured the acres of lakes, Gus pointed out a million dollar house (plus or minus a few $$ -- I'm thinking plus; we weren't buying, only dreaming and having fun doing it!!). "See that house? Folks built it, moved in and he had a heart attack, died a month later. Enjoy life now. Don't wait until it's too late."

In that moment, Gus helped us remember just how rich we were, all of us together, the sun warming our face, riding in a boat skimming the water's surface, a late lunch by the water's edge. We could enjoy one another and the richness of the day and feel remarkably rich.

I'm going to make a point of "living in between," knowing the money will come in and go out and I will enjoy abundance in all of its forms every single day. Thanks, Gus, for the reminder. —  ps