Finding Joy in the Present: Embrace the present moment today

Think about the men elderly gathered in the village square. The soft rustle of cards being shuffled and dealt is accompanied by the gentle laughter and warm camaraderie shared among friends. The air is scented with dill from nearby houses, a reminder of the simple pleasures that surround them. 

In this scene, the elderly exemplify the art of finding joy in the present, cherishing each moment as it unfolds. Matthew 6:34 advises letting go of worries about tomorrow, and these individuals seem to have mastered the ability to savor the present. 

Their focus is not on the uncertainties of the future, but on the joy of companionship, the thrill of the game, and the beauty of the day unfolding around them.

Reflect on how living in the moment can enhance your own joy. Like the elderly, who find fun in simple pleasures, you too can embrace the present by immersing yourself fully in the experiences of today. Whether it's by engaging in a favorite hobby, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply pausing to appreciate the world around you, living in the moment allows you to experience life more vividly and richly. 

Let this lesson guide you, as the elderly remind us that joy is not a distant goal but a present reality, waiting to be discovered in the here and now. By choosing to live in the moment, you open yourself to a world of possibilities, where happiness is found not in what might be, but in what is.

Look for Dill in a Pickle

Sowing

Dill is best started by sowing seeds directly outdoors after the last frost. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Temperatures of 60-70°F are optimal for growth.

Growing

Once the frost has passed, dill can flourish outdoors, spaced about 12 inches apart—let it spread its feathery fronds! Dill loves full sun and thrives in moist, well-drained soil.

Winter Work

Dill is somewhat hardy, but in colder climates, it requires a bit of extra care. Consider bringing it indoors to a sunny windowsill or using grow lights to keep it growing through the winter months.

Yummy Dishes

Dill is a culinary delight, adding a fresh and tangy flavor to dishes such as salads, dressings, and fish.

And don’t forget the pickles!

DAD WAS HERE  👨🏻🦰  What did the pickle say to the waiter? 🤵🏻 "Can I have my dill, please?"  

Superpowers

This aromatic herb is more than just a flavor enhancer—it's a wellness booster! Dill is rich in antioxidants and supports digestive health.

There’s More!

Ancient Origins

The history of dill spans back at least 5,000 years to Ancient Egypt, where it was mentioned in medical texts as a calming remedy.

Symbolic Power

The Ancient Egyptians believed that dill had the ability to protect against evil spirits and witches. Similarly, the ancient Greeks utilized it to create fragrant oils for pleasing scents and incorporated it into their wines.

"Meetinghouse Seeds"

In the 17th century, English Puritans and Quakers would give their children dill seeds to chew during lengthy sermons, earning them the nickname "meetinghouse seeds." This practice was thought to soothe their stomachs, curb appetite, and minimize restlessness.