Sometimes things happen in life that just make us stop and think. Recently one of our patients that loves to write shared a story with us. He gave permission to share with you. This is his story.

I once rode a bus many, many years ago. While I was on the bus, I paid no attention to anyone on the bus. I was caught up in my own thoughts. I did not notice the girl with Down Syndrome. I was not paying attention to my surroundings when I should have. When it was my time to get off the bus, I noticed her for the first time. It was not because we stood up at the same time, but because of how she got up. She seemed to be the only one smiling. I smirked in response. Not wanting to be mean but coming across that way regardless. As she exited the bus, I was right behind her. She turned left, which happened to be the same way I was going. For some reason, I did not rush to get around her. I stayed a few paces
behind. We walked a few minutes then she stopped abruptly. I almost stumbled into her, but I stopped as well. I paid attention but I did not introduce myself. I did not ask if she was ok. I just stood there and watched her. I felt a little creepy. What I watched her do, I would later in life find life changing. She was bending down and cupping a dandelion growing through the cracks of the sidewalk. Tears streaming down her face. What did I do? I walked around her and went on my way. Now, years later, I reflect on that experience and understand what God was sharing with me. Beauty is everywhere; we just need to stop, see it, and enjoy it.

Winter is fading fast to spring and there is much beauty to enjoy every day. Don’t rob yourself of the beautiful moments that offer opportunities to give God Glory. Also, there are those around us that need love but many that have love to share. A kind word or deed can change an attitude from mad to glad. Don’t miss out on today’s beauty. Life is short. We are not promised tomorrow. The beauty is ours for the taking. We need to simply embrace. Happy Spring!

Think abouts:

1. The dandelion can produce up to __ viable seeds through its puff ball blossom
   and spread the seeds through wind dispersal.
   A. 10,000 B. 20,000 C. 30,000
2. Dandelions were introduced to the United States by the Pilgrams. True or false.

Answers: 1. 20,000 2. True

Resources:
https://extension.oregonstate.edu

www.Southernliving.com/Everything You’ve Ever Needed to Know About Dandelions; S.
Bender and P. York, March 20, 2026.