Tiffany Painter

So another big week in the news. But this time, we could pry our eyes from the train wreck that has become the norm and celebrate some good news. I don’t even have to say who got engaged for everyone to know what good news I am talking about. And you don’t have to be a Swiftie or Chief’s fan to appreciate this engagement. I don’t have any friendships bracelets and didn’t go to her concert, but I can appreciate the power and influence of a woman who has found a way to do what she loves and still tries to spread good around the world. She does not forget about all the people who work to create the universe she lives in. She has gone up against people who have tried to take ownership of her work, and, frankly, outsmarted them. When she’s not busy building an empire, she remembers to share what she has with the communities around the world that welcome her. Really, other than having a few friends try to get her in trouble with their messy lives, she pretty much just spreads happiness wherever she goes. And she likes cats. The other half of this news story goes to a man who is also really good at his job, and for someone whose hometown team is a rival of his team, that’s hard to admit. He has proven that he is more than just a jock. He demonstrates family loyalty by working with his brother and praising his parents, not to mention being a devoted uncle. He lifts his girlfriend up and lets her work shine. He even learned something new so he could participate in what she likes and literally put himself on stage for the world to see. Even though all the Dads, Brads, and Chads are not happy that their golden boy has allowed the women into their private club, he has not only welcomed the women, he holds the door open for them. Many people complain about this good news and some even mock it. All the other news of the week reminds us that we live in a world where hatred is honored, where belittling others is encouraged, where seeking power is the goal. All the people who follow that path will never be able to appreciate the simple joy of two people falling in love and wanting to get married, even when they live on a stage for the world to see. At a time when the news tends to make me angry, this news was a pleasant read, and I say congratulations to the happy couple (who remained nameless).

8/18

after midnight rain
morning sun highlights puddles
freshly washed world

8/20

greeting each other
both welcoming the new day
peaceful morning walks

8/23

when the clouds roll in
morning sun pushed aside
day calls for muffins

8/26

sun sent wake-up call
enjoying morning stretches
soaking up the rays

8/30

living on the edge
unable to take next step
rooted to this spot