There are those little things in life that people take for granted . A smile from a stranger, a knowing glance from a loved one, a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, an accepting embrace when you are feeling low.

Some people run, screaming through their lives, trying to devour every experience they can. Living every minute like it were their last. Just trying to squeeze in as much living as they can. Their lives are speeding freight trains. They head blindly, without brakes, never fearing the brick wall at the end of the tunnel. No stopping, no slowing down.

I've known other people that live in fear. Afraid to speak up, speak out or rise above. Afaid to try, afraid to struggle, afraid to fail. They do what they're told. They are hollow inside, dying a little more each day.

As for me, I'm trying to find balance. I need to see and feel the beauty in all things. I need to search for higher meaning.

So as you pass me by, don't feel sorry for me. I was born with the spirit of a turtle. I'm happy taking my time, stopping to smell the flowers.