I recently watched two individual begin a quest. In this particular case, it was a formal ceremony where they were introduced and formally accepted by others who started their quests earlier. The universal themes that bound us together are curiosity, interest, a willingness to grow, and uncertainty.
As I extended my welcome to each, I looked into the eyes of one and found myself looking into the eyes of a Madras bride years ago. As I congratulated her, I could sense but failed to appreciate the depth of the overwhelming emotions of her father standing next to me. The visual memory centers and focuses on the moment where I looked into her eyes as I shared a blessing on her with a hope for the best to follow.
In her eyes, overwhelming feelings danced relentlessly. Excitement and anticipation sparring with unbridled fear and uncertainty. It was as if a deer was caught in by the headlights of a car on a mountain road at night that forever changes the story’s course. Was happiness or a life of sadness before her? Where was today’s events leading her? Did she have any say or was everything out of her control? The dance in her eyes between excitement and fear dominated my thinking for a long time after and still haunts me today.
I could see the same in his eyes. I struggled for words then and was trapped by silence now. To both I wish I had said what I am saying to myself now.
In every quest we take in our lives, God was, is, and will be there. Take time to look. “Search high and low, scan skies and land, you’ll find nothing and no one quite like God.” (Psalm 89.6)
Use the fear and uncertainty you feel right now to embrace the help, guidance, and support offered by those you trust.
Laugh, love, and embrace Hope and Beauty wherever they are found. They are the energy bars in living full.
Live embracing, learning, and growing from whatever unfolds.
Each moment is an opportunity for More.
