I faced the reality of too many before me. I came home to a silent and empty building. Nothing greeted me except my memories. As I wrestled with my thoughts, past and present, I found myself looking out at the truck that is now in my name. In the fading light, I experienced the past and the present. The eternal question I have asked many others confronted me: What would I do with what I know?
Life is an opportunity that is often wasted. I have heard it is an age thing. Frankly, I see too much waste at all ages to believe this is true. I don’t know if waste correlates to age, status, or situation. I know opportunities can be difficult. I also know life can bring pain that overwhelms even the strongest. In the complexity, difficulty, and pain, as well as the joy and celebration, there are opportunities. I saw the truck in the fading light and looked to the future, inspired and richer for what had come before.
Life’s challenges and pain can be a price for a better future. If one was sure, would it make the decision easier? With fear and doubts lingering, I hold right to my trust in the larger story with Divinity. I am encouraged by the examples set by earlier generations. In Moses’ case, “He valued suffering in the Messiah’s camp far greater than Egyptian wealth because he was looking ahead, anticipating the payoff.” (Hebrews 11.26) He knew what he was choosing. Once he chose his path, he made an all-in choice of a lifetime.
Life is a relentless invitation. As one light fades, I am sitting in the dawn of a new day filled with the unknown. The invitation to engage is still here. There is a calling that is more than a polite invitation – it is demanding, pulling, tugging at my heart. I am part of a larger story that changes with words and actions. I may want to hide, yet I cannot escape the caring I was taught. It is a heart value.
