Little Inspirations

      Joe and I had been discussing naming our daughter Mira, short for Miracle. Then, a few days ago, my future sister-in-law, Cassi, shared a link with me. It was an article about a very unique shooting star, named Mira. The star is one of a kind because it does not travel like other stars, it shoots past the herds of other stars and creates it's own path. Not only that, but while Mira travels, it sheds debris. This debris does not turn into dead, used up mass, like the debris of other stars, but instead, Mira's debris turns into more stars, planets, and has the possibility of actually creating life!

 A picture of the actual star, Mira.

     As I read this article, I clearly was not thinking about the star itself, but instead was making this connection to my daughter, and crying a very relieving, happy cry. A beautiful, one-of-a-kind creation that breaks the mold, overwhelms everyone with her uniqueness, and exudes life everywhere she travels. In my mind now, that is my daughter. Mira. 
     Little inspirations, like reading that article, puts a spring back in one's step after they have received some heavy blows. It's the little things that allow you to exhale with peace. For the next couple days, I was able to relax. Play with the kids, and take real joy from listening to them laugh and play together. Spend some time spying on my son while I was overwhelmed with pride as I secretly watched him practice his letters without knowing I was watching. Listen to Aryanna giggle while Dustin ran around, acting crazy, just to make her laugh. Sometimes, just a sip of ice cold water and a deep breath can bring you some peace.
     When you're dealing with a situation that is out of your control, that is so big and life-altering it can completely overwhelm you, little inspirations are where you will find sanity. That is where I am finding my peace, and finding the will to make it through and take it one day at a time. One step at a time, one plan at a time, one piece of knowledge at a time, and one little inspiration at a time.