Keeping perspective

It’s Still Water…

Although we had come expecting to see a variety of colors, bright and beautiful, as in other spots around the water, what we came upon was much more subtle, but also bright and beautiful.

Standing at the water’s edge, initially, the stillness and clarity of the pond was so peaceful, drawing us closer, putting us in awe. Looking further out, ripples seemed to suddenly appear, although given the gentle, steady breeze, they were likely there all along, only becoming more prominent as one’s glance stretched past the calmness of the water that was closest by. Beyond the trembles, across, to the other side of the pond was more stillness. It was in the trees of mostly green, and further, the sky also steady and calm. Taken altogether, perhaps making a ripple sandwich. Oftentimes, the uneven spots are gently held between, or surrounded by, the ones that carry peace.

Rejoice

Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice; turn to the Lord and the Lord’s strength, constantly seek the Lord’s face. – Psalm 105:3-4

Somehow…Someway…

“But the sky knows the reasons and the patterns behind all clouds, and you will know, too, when you lift yourself high enough to see beyond horizons.” – Richard Bach

As the school year winds down and the parental spiral into full-fledged teenage years moves steadily ahead, I find myself understanding more and more why it is important to write down, photograph…to memorialize in some way the moments of everyday life—both the challenges and the joys.

Sometimes I think back to the sleepless nights or days when it seemed like we were swimming in diapers and I think, “How did we get through that?” I chuckle as I remember moments of seeing glimpses of preferences, mannerisms and personality that are now more pronounced, part-and-parcel, of who my children are. What a blessing to be able to see and be part of all of those moments. Yes, even the diapers and sleepless nights—although I also feel very blessed to have moved beyond that stage of parenthood.

No matter what one’s stage or station in life, it can be so helpful to recall past moments when feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or simply wondering, “How is this going to work out?” or, “What’s this all about?” in the current moment or situation. Somehow, doing so makes it easier to keep things in perspective and refrain from falling prey to the trap that is “worry” or the superhero syndrome that leads me to falsely thinking or acting as if I can control all things.

It is remarkable how, somehow, we can get through what we need to get through and someway we accomplish and overcome what at times might seem insurmountable. Then I think, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:50)