The reflections were warped yet still recognisable. The buildings stood tall, reaching into the heavens. I could turn myself towards them, if, I changed my direction. The decision caused me to pause. I could hear a call to turn and look clearly into the eyes and hearts of the individuals around me. Life is more than a reflection. Life is an opportunity to face people and situations directly. As today begins, I find myself considering two storylines. In one, I am reaching out to others. The second storyline involves living through the reflections between us.
As I reflect in the darkness just before dawn, life is gently drawing me into the story I will write today.
I am part of a story with others. We are part of a story that is larger than anything we can imagine. The awareness of both is a lesson that changes how I see my past. It is also a corrective lens that allows me to see the moment that is now with clarity. I love the people in my life. As I embrace them, I find myself being embraced. As I care for each, I realised that I am being cared for.
Words matter. I know I am loved. The words of love in my life change my awareness, understanding, and experience of love. It is in expressing ourselves in the moment, saying the easy words as well as the tough ones, that I find myself in relationships. When I look back, it is the relationships that speak to living life to the full.
We are in this together. In addition to the reality of being in a family, I have come to deeply appreciate the role acceptance and belonging play in happiness. They are tightly linked. As I grow in my appreciation for the interplay, I find myself hearing old guidance with a fresh appreciation for how important it is; “Reach out and welcome one another to God’s glory. Jesus did it; now you do it!” (Romans 15.7)
I turned then. Today is my opportunity to turn again.
