Blue skies from now on

O bluebird, welcome back again. Thy azure coat and ruddy vest, are hues that April loveth best. John Burroughs

Yesterday I woke to the cheerful and incessant call of my neighbourhood kingfisher, who for a little bird has a mighty voice. The cloudless blue sky inspired a jaunty lilt to my gait as I made my way to the studio.
 
Blue skies
Smiling at me
Nothing but blue skies
Do I see – Ella Fitzgerald
(listen here)

Bluebirds are the first birds to return to the northern climes after winter. Their colourful plumage offers hope that winter is soon gone.
 
In 1934 Edward Heyman wrote ‘The Bluebird of Happiness’ which sold over a million copies.
Listen here
Lyrics here.
 
It’s a life of smiles, and a life of tears,
It’s a life of hopes, and of fears.
For every bit of darkness,
There’s a little bit of light.
If you will— hold your head up high,
‘Til you see a ray of light and cheer.
And so remember this, life is no abyss,
Somewhere there’s a bluebird of happiness.

May you find yours. 

Hope Springs

Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering ‘it will be happier  - Alfred Lord Tennyson

During COVID New Zealand’s Prime Minister added the Easter Bunny to her country’s list of essential workers. In the west the Easter bunny is akin to Santa Claus bringing eggs and chocolate to children.  This tradition originated in Germany in the late 1600’s where it was believed both eggs and rabbits symbolised fertility and rebirth, both signs of spring. Eventually the practice found it’s way to the USA and Hallmark.
 
This year we are doubly blessed to be celebrating the year of the rabbit. 2023 was ordained to be a year of longevity, peace,  prosperity and hope. Tonight’s full pink moon will be celebrated as ‘Passover Moon’ among the Jewish; Muslims, Ramadan; Hindus, the birth of Lord Hanuman;  Buddhists, Bak Poya; and  for Christians Shrove Thursday.
 
Both the Chinese and Aztecs had myths featuring rabbits.  In both cases the rabbits selflessly offered themselves as food for hungry travellers.  Unbeknownst to the rabbits the travellers were gods in human form. Touched by this noble offering the rabbits were elevated to the moon. "You may be just a rabbit, but everyone will remember you; there is your image in light, for all people and for all times."

Tonight take a moment, gaze at the moon. Remember Hope is a waking dream. Aristotle Fleetwood Mac reminds us that yesterday is gone, yesterday is gong.  To open our eyes and look at the day and see things in a different way. It'll be better than before.

Listen here