Today I am grateful for the soft fading of the light as it moves on toward sunset. It is a pleasure to witness the change as it sparkles across the ice on the lake, then slowly turns into gray quiet as darkness descends. The birds hush and a stillness settles around us. When I look farther I can see the last radiant orange and pink, more precious than ever because I know it will only last a moment. I am content to have the companionship of a dear friend to share in this sacred closing of another day.