As I was enjoying a wonderful advent church service this morning, a woman came in about 20 minutes late and sat down next to me. She was bundled up in a insulated winter coat, wool hat and big scarf wrapped around her neck. She looked like most of us coming in today because it is very snowy and cold in Chicago. I’d guess she was in her early 40’s.

When the service ended, I turned to her, said hello and introduced myself. With a big smile on her face, she introduced herself and said she was visiting from Kenya. With a lilt in her voice, she added, “It’s the first time I’ve ever seen snow. It’s so beautiful!

“How wonderful. And it’s a good thing you have a warm coat,” I replied. “It’s so cold.”

“Yes, but the snow is so white, so pretty on the trees. In fact, I was late because I wasn’t sure what time the service started. I enjoyed it so much that I think I’ll walk around outside for a few minutes, then come back for the next service.

I focused on the cold. She focused on the snow. She was in awe of seeing her first snow and that was her singular focus at that moment.

That little interlude made my day. This lady was in awe. She was in the moment with all her senses, experiencing the winter snow for the first time. Some of us with little children are offered the opportunity to see things again, for the first time, through our children’s eyes. How wonderful when we, ourselves, can realize those moments, stop and engage with our senses.

This lady I had a brief encounter with, not only made my day, but epitomized what’s important – stop, take notice and enjoy. I’m so grateful for her reminder and for her joyous spirit.