Make Hay

Just a few generations ago, farmers cut the grass, spread it out to dry, and gathered it before the rain arrived. A few unexpected showers could turn a promising harvest into a soggy disappointment. Without weather apps, tractors with air conditioning, or a convenient way to reschedule sunshine, there was serious meaning to “Make hay while the sun shines.”  

Timing mattered. So did getting off the porch.

Bill: I've always liked that expression. Don't waste a good opportunity.

Sheri: Interesting. Yesterday the sun was shining, and you spent two hours sitting on the porch.

Bill:  I was studying the weather and planning.

Sheri: From a reclining position?

Bill: Thorough research requires patience.

Sheri:  And by the way, I really had to think awhile before I finally remembered that "BR-459" which you added to our image was from Hee Haw 😊

Of course, making hay isn't just about working harder. It's about recognizing when circumstances are working with us instead of against us.

An old friend happens to be in town? Make time for lunch. A beautiful afternoon appears on your calendar? Take that walk. Have a few uninterrupted hours? Finish the project that's been patiently collecting dust and developing a personality of its own.

And sometimes the opportunity isn't something we've been planning. It's an unexpected invitation, a new friendship, or a chance to try something we've never done before.

The Romans called it Carpe Diem—seize the day. Blacksmiths advised striking while the iron was hot. Farmers preferred making hay.

Apparently, humanity has spent centuries reminding itself to quit waiting around.

But here's another thought. Not every sunny day requires a productivity contest.

Sometimes the best use of beautiful weather is a picnic, a little music, or an afternoon with someone you love.  After all, we're making a life, not just a living.

Sheri: So, what are we going to do with this beautiful day?

Bill:  Make hay!

Sheri: Wonderful. I'll bring some lemonade and snacks.

Bill: And I'll bring the lawn chairs.

There's a time to plant, a time to harvest, and a time to enjoy what we've gathered. The trick is recognizing the sunshine—and making something worthwhile of it.

See you in the hayfield. The lemonade's on us.

Sheri & Bill, Storytellers in Word Image and Song

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Positive Reflections... Likeminded Perspectives

“Lost time is never found again.” — Benjamin Franklin

“While we are postponing, life speeds by.” — Seneca

“It's not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?” — Henry David Thoreau

"Opportunity may knock only once, but procrastination has apparently been given a key.” —  Sheri & Bill

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