I met a 5-month-old recently. Beyond his amazing calmness in the chaos going on all around him, I found an old soul within sharing and teaming me about life. I find myself wanting to hold onto his teachings, replaying them as I am now at the start of every day.
One can say as much or more through one’s eyes as one can with words and motions. This young man had an ability to look fully, deeply, and without hesitation. His gaze was so steady and focused that I initially realized I was uncomfortable. As I relaxed and accepted the open, totally vulnerable one on one eye contact, I found myself remembering the psalmist’s words; “All eyes are on you, expectant; you give them their meals on time.” (Psalm 145.15).
Staying focused, being fully, totally, unreservedly in the moment, is a gift to both parties. It was incredible how focused he could be. I am not sure how long it was. I realized I was caught in a redux experience of my all-time favorite short movie (less than 8 minutes). His eyes and face were fully focused on mine. Once it began, it did not break until I turned away. In the process, I experienced trust, renewal, and recreation within. It was incredibly unexpected! Once experienced, I wanted more.
Life is, especially as one ages, complex and uncertain. One might think dealing with this should be the first and only priority in one’s life. This experience took me to life’s most precious gifts. I rediscovered through the eyes and touch of a 5-month-old how Divinity gifts me with love, relationship, and hope. Through his gift, I saw the world around me differently. I rediscovered lightness, opportunities, and choice.
Even as I pause in the light of a new morning, I am taken back to the moment I first looked into his eyes. We have a standing invitation to be part of a new creation. I can use his example as inspiration for the moment which is now to recreate, restore, and renew love and hope.
