As I walked into a building, the mirror in the lobby was a view into two worlds. The setting sun cast a yellow glow on the interior walls of the building as well as the garden and young olive tree outside. As I paused and reflected, I saw my mind replayed metaphorically in the mirror. It felt as if life was trying to remind me of the reality of Paul’s observation; “For you who welcome him [Divinity], in whom he dwells – even though you still experience all the limitations of sin – you yourself experience life on God’s terms.” (Romans 8.10). I know the limits of the walls I create and in which I live while I see beyond, to free and the opportunities to grow.
Acknowledging life’s tensions and the two extremes, good and evil, self and community, and even light and darkness, is the beginning of Divine dialogue and growth. As I strengthen my conversations with Divinity and make progress on my journey of becoming a better person, I will still live in and experience the extremes. When I look at my life’s mirror, I will see both. In my acknowledgment is the recurring choice of my immediate destination. The choice, inside or out, for now, remains with me.
Never be afraid to look in the mirror. Life does not need to be defined by one location. The journey and the decision found in the present is our opportunity to decide. Yes, we learn from our steps and the outcomes. These, ideally, inform us. With understanding, support, and in responding to the call to represent kindness, compassion, and caring, there is clarity of what is at stake. I love forgiveness, for two reasons. First, because of the behind why it was provided. Secondly, I love forgiveness for the opportunities it represents.
Life is not found in the mirror. Looking back, informing our hearts and minds is useful to a point. Once this process is complete, there is a moment to seize, a life to live. That moment in time is here, now.
