Reality is not always friendly. To put it bluntly, at times it stings. There is a harsh edge to reality that cuts without thought or consideration. I find that reality has an ability to push anyone down in a given moment in time. It takes on the strong. It dominates the powerful. It brushes off the disciplined. Reality is something one must deal with.
I find it is natural to want to live in a world reflecting our imagination. They seem to go much easier in the land of imagination. One’s ideas always work. Choices are perfect. Everyone seems to get along. When they do not; it is always another’s problem.
Even as our imaginations let us reach towards the unknown, the lack of a link to reality creates a problem within itself. You and I need reality in order to grow. We need reality if we want to make a difference. Life begins in the moment we have right now. If we see others and ourselves with a clear light, the possibility of difference exists.
Grasping reality for the good that it brings us begins with two hands. A willingness to see it for what it is. To reach and hold onto reality comes with a demand that we open our minds up to the present. It is not about shaping or spinning what exists. It is about understanding and letting the knowledge wash over one’s senses.
Additionally, we must examine the present. What is it saying to us? Are we willing to let it speak? The obvious questions are important. As an example, “the reality test on whether or not we love God’s children is this: Do we love God? Do we keep his commands?” (1 John 5.2)
I want to step towards a better future. I think I know what pieces of this look like. Whatever my imagination tells me, today I must start with the present. I need to see and hear what is. I am sure it will include things I am not fond of. Life is more than the pleasant.
