By John ‘Butch’ Dale
Guest Columnist

We live in a hectic, fast-paced world. Yes, even here in good ol’ rural Montgomery County.

John ‘Butch’ Dale

Many of you are on the go from morning until late at night. I was stuck in that mode for many years, but I have slowed down the pace in the past few years. I have started to appreciate many things in my life that I used to take for granted. Although national politics sometimes gets me riled up, I very seldom complain about anything. I dread listening to others go on and on about how terrible their lives are. I honestly enjoy each and every day!

These are many “little things” in life in which we should take more notice and appreciate. Here are few that I am thankful for now, which I never really thought much about when I was younger …

… The beauty of clouds, a gentle rain and those amazing rainbows … falling leaves and the smells of autumn … colorful flowers .. all of the wild animals and birds … horses … a cozy chair, a good book and a cup of coffee … my comfortable old slippers … hot showers and warm sheets … treasured photos of family … old time movies and songs … handwritten letters and thank you notes from friends and relatives … and great neighbors who are always helpful and friendly.

… A coney dog from the Dog ‘n Suds … homemade ice cream … fresh home baked chocolate chip cookies … bacon and eggs on Sunday morning … hot chocolate on a cold day … that first fried sponge mushroom in the spring … Wick’s sugar cream pie … shrimp and Caesar salad at Red Lobster … my wife’s homemade chili … bagels with raspberry jelly … and Krispy Kreme doughnuts … I’m getting hungry!

… Repairing or building something on my own … driving my old 1951 Farmall tractor … doing a good deed for a stranger … giving money to my grandkids … receiving a hug from a former student … giving our dogs a special treat … buying a vintage item that reminds me of my childhood … walking down the road to the creek after supper … watching my grandkids play sports … driving my old truck slowly around the countryside and just enjoying the sights … mowing grass on the weekend (you can do a lot of thinking on a riding mower!) … helping a patron find a good book at the library … being with my family, especially during the holidays … and yes, even taking a nap before coming to work … ah, the peach and quiet!

I have a happier life. I am more relaxed and have a better outlook. I don’t sweat the small stuff anymore. I don’t get upset when things don’t go my way. If something breaks and needs to be replaced, so be it. I have no desire to “keep up with the Joneses,” but I never did anyway. As a police officer, I witnessed many tragedies. I was involved in situations in which I honestly thought I might not make it out alive. Those events affected how I look at life.

Your life is how you make it … no matter what your age. It all depends on you. But always remember that along the way, you need to appreciate the little things in life … and “stop and smell the roses”…