Bias

Some who have never come to the Redwoods think they know all about the woods.  It is as if the pictures, biological and geographical facts, and writings of others tell the whole story.  I cannot imagine why anyone would want this to be true yet some do.  Coming to the Redwoods opens one’s self to a unique experience.  I would be reluctant to suggest that this particular experience is the one to end all others, however it is rather special.  As great as some of the pictures, stories, and facts are, experiencing the reality of the Redwoods is even better!
 
Yet the rumors and assumptions about the Redwoods continue.  People assume they know what it is like to stand beside a tree taller than a football pitch.  Others think they understand silence, having never stood in a stand of Redwoods trees on a summer day.  There are even some who think a video captures beauty and awe of new born deer running across the fields. 
 
Even before the technology of today people that they knew what was going on without experience.  Regardless of situation, rumors tell an accurate story.  If not rumors then gossip, innuendo, or someone’s conclusion suffices.  This has been going on for centuries!  In Jesus’ day, “Annas interrogated Jesus regarding his disciples and his teaching.  Jesus answered, ‘I've spoken openly in public.  I've taught regularly in meeting places and the Temple, where the Jews all come together.  Everything has been out in the open.  I've said nothing in secret.  So why are you treating me like a conspirator?  Question those who have been listening to me.  They know well what I have said.  My teachings have all been above board.’” (John 18.19-21) 
 
The Redwoods, God, and the Spirit are open and available for first hand, personalized experience.  New days come, full of opportunity for you and me to experience the best life offers first hand.  Today is your opportunity and mine to set aside our bias.  We can experience Divinity first hand – in the Redwoods and or in the City.  Everything is possible.