I remember planning for a trip in late summer. At the time, I did not know what to expect. With the journey, when I need to think of fields loaded with fruits, vegetables, and herbs, the smells carried on a gentle breeze in Southern France replay in my mind. With this as a reference point, I find myself travelling the world. Northern California, Japan, New Zealand, and England also come to mind.
Each memory is filled with anticipation or appreciation of a harvest. Even as I step into each scene, what stands out most is the individuals who were part of the moment. In her or his own way, each took a special memory in the making and transformed it into something extraordinary. Fifteen years ago today, it was on New Zealand’s South Island. In between, there were times shared that altered my journey for the better. The lessons of those experiences continue to guide me as I face the day ahead.
Life’s ordinary events are an invitation to live to the maximum. I found life in the wonder of a peach, the laughter as adults rediscovering their childhood in a pool, and a conversation over breakfast with orange marmalade on toast. In looking to my left and right and to the next step forward, I rediscovered the possibilities of hope. In that season of unknowing, I found purpose and a calling. I experienced peace, hope and love delivered through kindness and care.
In the same experience, I realised that some of my choices were not leading me to a better future. It took a while for the insight to play out, even as I realised the truth in an old observation. “If it [anything] produces weeds and thistles, it’s more likely to get cussed out. Fields like that are burned, not harvested.” (Hebrews 6.8) The challenge of making a difference never ends, if only because caring and kindness are needed more than ever.
Today is my opportunity to respond to what is available. It is an invitation to be fully and deeply immersed in love.
