As I walked out to dinner, the picture hanging in the lobby of the apartment building had a strong reflective draw. The picture frame’s shine was so bright that I could see my blurry image as if I was looking at myself in a mirror with a masked face in the centre. As I considered the art, quiet whispers within began to talk about the potential lessons I could take into today.
There are times when I look in the mirror and do not recognise myself or even the context of what I am seeing. I am that image, surround by a sea of black confusion and darkness. Knowing that I am, at least at the moment, lost, and “I can’t be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God’s command is necessary.” (Romans 7.16). In these moments, starting any decision or action with an intent of kindness, care, and compassion is a step towards taking me right to where I need to be, the centre.
The edges of what I can see often frame my perspective. Knowing that the edges reflect what is beyond is helpful, but given the distortions, it is helpful to remember that what I think I am seeing is not precisely accurate. Stepping back, restoring my viewpoint as I start at the centre, opens opportunities for me to be intentionally the best I can be. This, for me, is a step into a better future that brings others along with me.
As I see mirrored self-reflection, others can see my true self through my choices, movements, and action. One will not always be at one’s best. I did not hear and consequently missed an opportunity to respond to a greeting wishing me the best the other morning. One can focus on what one missed in the past. Alternatively, one can learn and grow with the experience of the past to improve one’s focus in the present. I choose the latter.
My life’s frame is found in the moment that is now.
