My best friend died at the age of 26 after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease two years earlier. We'd been like twin sisters from the time we were toddlers.

I helped care for her, and on nice days when she was feeling well enough we'd take walks along the beach or in the woods.

We took a walk out in the woods one autumn. As we walked, my friend picked up a leaf and examined it closely. She absorbed the color, veins, and shape - as if it were a flawless diamond.

At that moment I realized I'd been so focused on my own walking that I never bothered to appreciate the beautiful world around me - even the bugs in life.

My friend died the following spring - never got to see another fallen leaf.

Me? I'm not really into leaves. Lilacs are MY favorite. I truly enjoy the anticipation of the buds sprouting in the spring. It tells me to hang on in there - the sun will be along shortly to warm things up again.

I hope you find what you need without having to trip over any leaves.