Dancing threads of light caught my eye as I walked. The flowers were distinctive as they captured the light from the sun that was setting over the city. I paused to sit on the edge of the planter so that I could experience the light and movement. It was soothing to sit in the breeze and observe. With each twist and turn, I could feel waves of hope washing over and through me.
Life likes to draw my attention to things that stand out. There are no limits. Sometimes it is individuals. On other occasions, it is a visual. Interactions often stand out as they reveal more than anyone involved realises. In the way something stands out are lessons that change the way I see the day ahead of me. The reminders I find myself quietly carrying with me include the following.
Be on the alert for standouts. Compliments are also invitations to pay attention, “Hello to Mary. What a worker she has turned out to be!” (Romans 16.6) Visually, the way the sunset flower captured the light was food for my soul. As simple as it was, taking an alert and slowing down for a moment to appreciate what stood out changed the rest of my evening.
Be open to Life’s voice. There is always an urgency in my life. Candidly, I was on a tight schedule for an appointment. Slowing down, sitting, and reflecting for a time was not in my plan. Looking back, I realise that I felt Life tugging at my shirt. In responding, I let go of my agenda and opened myself up to what Divinity wanted to express through nature. As I was released to walk on, I could feel a sense of lightness, peace, and assurance.
Be ready to respond. The past remains with me for learning and growth. The future, ideally, gifts me with a sense of what might be. In the now, life. In each moment are threads of care, kindness, and love that live on within one’s heart. We give them life through words and action.
