I flew with my brother from San Francisco to Mumbai when I was ten. We were two young kids, off on an adventure to stay with grandparents I barely knew and in a country that only existed in my imagination. We arrived in the middle of the night, so the initial impressions were surreal. When we finally arrived in our new home, I was shown to my bedroom, sleepy, dazed, and confused. The following day, I woke to discover a new world.
One of the first memories that has stayed with me was the fruit tree outside my bedroom window. It was different; its leaves, bark, and shape were a hodgepodge of varying fruit tree types. The fruit, a custard apple, was a discovery all in itself! What followed was my first solo experience with something unimaginable, new and innovative, forever changing my view of fruits.
I love a good custard apple. Every time I see them, the first scene and taste that followed replays in my mind. Then and now, it is a gateway to experiencing something new for the first time.
Each moment I have is unique. As familiar as many of its elements can be, the moment is unique, one that comes only to fade into history. If not seized with care and intent, it passes as something lost. There is so much potential if I am open to what is there. As a kid, I discovered something new. It was weird and wonderful, strange and tasty.
Others may try and yet cannot dictate my response. In my freedom, I choose what I will do. I hear the advice left by an earlier generation; “Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out.” (Hebrews 10.24) Innovation, creativity, and art have a role in my life! In bringing kindness and compassion, I open the door to delivering hope and light to those around me. In the process, I gift myself with the same.
Today begins with fresh opportunities to be creative and inventive. It’s discovery time for a better future.
