The walk through a quiet French village at dusk took me to places I never imagined. It was a surprise excursion amid great food, wonderful friends, and a sense of harmony.
The trigger for the excursion was the sign on a small one-way street just off the main square. As I walked, reflecting on the recognition still paid centuries after their influence diminished, I was informed the street name originated from that time. This street had carried this name through wars and times of despair and darkness. The Knights had left their mark. By any measure, eight hundred years is significant. Enduring commitments often are.
Life whispers took me on a journey, leaving me with lesson reminders. Today, I woke up to them and the memories of that walk with friends.
Commitment is expressed and received through words and deeds. They are heard and often, forgotten, even lost by those who were touched. When the commitment is true, it never leaves the one expressing what they know to be within. I may doubt, forget, or even lose the memory for a time.
To some, this marks the end. There are exceptions. The Knights kept theirs until their lives were no more; Divinity has done the same in my experience. Lose it or lost? “Not on your life! Depend on it: God keeps his word even when the whole world is lying through its teeth. Scripture says the same: Your words stand fast and true; Rejection doesn’t faze you.” (Romans 3.4)
As I considered street sign memories, I am struck by the places where commitment lives and thrives. The peaceful harmony of the walk that evening has continued to feed the resolution within. When I look beyond myself, the calling and courage to continue the quest remain strong. If I am distracted by personal wants or desires, it flickers, uncertain.
As today begins, I take courage from the examples left by others. I am strengthened by the enduring awareness of Divinity’s unconditional gift of freedom and recreation. My future can be written by compassion, care, and community.
