The lights through the windows created a haunting shadow of intersections on the floor. Initially, I glanced and ignored it. The whispers in my mind screamed silently, forcing me to stop, take a step back, consider, and ultimately record it for future consideration. Simplicity versus complexity, understandable versus still coming to terms with the details, and knowing where I stand. Shadows reminding me of the sharp line that exists in every moment as the unknown that tries to disrupt the knowing.
It took me a bit to see how the shadows came together. As my mind focused on that, I could hear the reminders forming for my reflection and growth.
At times, black and white delivers a message with a clarity of purpose that colour cannot. The simplicity is there without question, caveat, or confusion. It came across as the illustration of a black-and-white promise versus a colour-filled contract. An unrelated observation echoed in my mind; “A contract drawn up by a hard-nosed lawyer and with plenty of fine print only makes sure that you will never be able to collect. But if there is no contract in the first place, simply a promise – and God’s promise at that – you can’t break it.” (Romans 4.15)
Finding one’s place in the shadows of life is the word of a lifetime. I do not remember intentionally standing in the simplicity of knowing. Maybe it was subconscious. Perhaps just accidental. Whatever the reason, as I look back, I see myself caught by the details and caveats of life, longing for simplicity. As I lean into the joy of knowing Divine promises, hope, intent, and action naturally follow.
Clarity takes time and investment. I know that it has never been a one-time experience for me. Clarity grows in my meditations, the content of how I feed my heart and soul, and in what I tell myself through my actions. My choices today are simpler, more contrasting than I imagine. Will I embrace love, compassion, and community? If so, I can see this moment’s decision in black and white.
