Each time I see a wall or rock face, I am reminded that there are individuals who see things very differently. What seems to be an obstacle to me is an opportunity for fun. What is big and overwhelming from my perspective, is observed and analyzed for features revealing handholds and potential routes. Hard, unforgiving, and problematic is seen in the context of potential excitement, great challenge, and satisfaction high that it also represents.
In a tribute to the influence their vision continues to have with me, I find myself looking for features and considering what I could do if I had the ability. What route would I be my first choice? Given the route, what hand hold would I use for the features I can see? What is my plan for surprises along the way when features changes and new routes are available or required?
Even as I imagine myself pulling off impossible moves, I realize that the questions apply to each day and the moments within them. First the why, then the how, and finally the what of the moment.
As I consider what my heroes have done, I am reminded that Divinity predicted how David, a man he described as being a echo of God’s heart, would behave; “he’ll call out, ‘Oh, my Father – my God, my Rock of Salvation!’” (Psalm 89.26) In term of today, there are practical things I can do.
I can start each day with the bias of possibilities, opportunities, and hope. In good times and bad, in times of celebration and in uncertainty and pain, there are windows where one can make a difference.
I can use the features that each moment offers. Each moment can be a place where hope lives, compassion is realized, and life is lived to the fullest.
I can start, live, and renew myself with food for my soul. Life starts with taking care of one’s self so that one can live to make a difference.
It is easy to see the walls. Each wall also represents an opportunity to see more.
