I sat, captured by the delicate soft rose. On one hand, it was vulnerable, fragile, and gentle. I knew that this had not always been the case. Growth had come with the need for thorns, resilience, and its purpose. The result was a gift of beauty and inspiration. In the silence, I could sense its lessons that are shaping the day that is just beginning to unfold.
Living involves others. Candidly, “By yourself, you’re unprotected. With a friend, you can face the worst. Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped.” (Ecclesiastes 4.12). Many elements contributed to my enjoyment in the moment. In addition to light and darkness, there was human care and attention, water as a lifeblood for growth, and soil with all its nutrients. My life involves so many others – from relationships, to food, to exercise, and the journey as I bring these with compassion, kindness, and care to the moment at hand. It is in life’s orchestration and my role in it that I see my opportunities.
Living is a journey. At each state, we have an opportunity to be ourselves. In the truth that emerges from authenticity, engagement, and purpose, I found my role and its purpose. The discovery came with peace and direction. I could hear my calling. In responding, I discovered that courage was living within me. I understood the importance of my purpose. In life’s gaps, you and I have roles to fill. Everyone has an opportunity to play their role. With each word and action, I experienced the wonder of belonging and making a difference. In stumbling, walking, and occasionally running, my path unfolded. I am never alone.
Life is filled with pain and joy, difficult moments and easy ones, hard and soft. A rose bud is hard when it is young. One has faith that it will become what it was intended to be: soft, smooth, and fragrant. Divinity has faith in what we can become with her. I hear the calling, see the potential. Today is a step towards being my best.
