As we headed up into the mountains, the city, noise, and humidity began to drop away. By the time we arrived, the air was fresh and cool, and the scent of the pine trees changed one’s awareness of every else. The air’s natural freshness opened my mind to things far and near. In the distance, the sun began its slow descent into the sea. Further up the hill, a church stood out above the village rooftops, standing tall in the evening sun.
I realised my attention was being consumed by subjects in the distance. Even as I enjoyed the breeze, peace, and gentle quietness that came with the view, I knew I was missing what was within my grasp. There were people to meet, conversations to be had, and the present to be attended to. The reminder of that moment has stayed with me. As I start my day, evening whispers that are with me include the following.
Life is very different from a distance. One does not need to engage or wrestle with what is immediate. One can look, admire, and ignore what is inside. Externals shape one’s view. I am reminded that looking at a church is different than exploring what it stands for. Inside, “the law code itself is God’s good and common sense, each command sane and holy counsel.” (Romans 7.12) When I get into the details, up close and personal, I have an opportunity to know this with my heart instead of just my head.
Life is lived in the present. The past and future are not where life is happening. While distance may influence what is near, the distance does not define it. Life is lived through my words and actions. Life is found in the ways I embrace or strike those around me. As much as I may want to hide in the distance, I always find myself in the present. We have an opportunity to use inspiration in the distance to empower hope and possibilities in the moment that is now. We connect life’s intangible with the immediate.
