One constant in my apartment view and my walks to and from Al Maryah Island is the Leaf Tower. With the curves of a clover, the glass structure enduringly echoes what each day reveals. In light and fading light, when the skies are clear, or when the skies are filled with sand or the mist coming from the sea, I know the reflection will endure and share a story. It is an enduring and relentless response to life as it unfolds.
I find myself hearing the lesson whispers from Leaf’s echo. With uncertainty dominating, there are endless reasons for me to be distracted. I want to rationalise my emotional response to the chaos and distractions, explaining the temporary distractions calling for my attention. In Leaf’s echo, I see a hope-filled call to action.
Life is relentless, and we are called to be the same. My natural reaction is to hear this calling as a siren to war. As I enjoyed the reflection in the fading light, I realised that my call to be relentless could be best described as a consistent, enduring, and forceful call to be kind and caring. Leaf is as intense as the day allows. The admonition of old rings loud and clear; “I want each of you to extend that same intensity toward a full-bodied hope and keep at it till the finish.” (Hebrews 6.11)
Life’s edge changes when it meets curves. I am reminded that my response does not need to be an equal and oppositive force. I can change the force hitting me, take the heat, and turn it into good. I know the reflection can be intense, often seemingly more so than the original. The experience reminds me of how strong hope is in the face of darkness. I see the power of kindness confronting greed. I am in awe of caring in response to exploitation.
Life continues, no matter what happens in the moment that has passed. It is easy to get lost in the echoes or blinded by the fear of the future. Life is this moment.
