We've all been there. And if from some stroke of luck, or destiny, we haven't, sit tight. We will be. These times are the training grounds of life, and one never gets too old, too wealthy, too healthy, that one gets to avoid them. There's no circling the wagons. No air lifts. No rescues. One must travel the road until they get to the end of it, usually by way of the dark tunnel. Not always, however. I think it depends largely on our attitude. And our gratitude.
We were created for greatness. Not that we are "all that and a bag of chips," but that HE is all that, and a bag of chips. I hope I don't lose you by mentioning the great I AM. Truly, it is by his design we were created with creativity in our bones. Made in his likeness (all living things we see were because of his spoken words), we, also, are creative. When he breathed life into Adams lungs, all humanity was destined for greatness...if they so chose it. If we allow the spirit that gives us life, to lead us, even though we must walk an unexpected, possibly unwanted, path of learning to do without, we will also learn to be satisfied/content, regardless of our circumstances. Hopefully. That is the lesson we should learn.
We are a blessed nation. Maybe even a spoiled nation. I do get it, however. Who doesn't want the best life has to offer? Or even the comfort that having "enough" offers? My hand is definitely raised! I don't need, or even want, multi-million dollar homes and all that money can buy. Just give me the comforts of life. Enough to keep the HVAC running, food in my tummy, clothes on my back, and a nice roof over my head. Health for my loved ones and something for my hands to do, and I'm all set.
When I see what is happening to the landscape in California, with fires that can't be contained, with so much loss, my heart grieves for the residence of that state. For those who have lost all their worldly possessions; some without an ounce of insurance for a promise of rebuilding when this all consuming fire has left. Gratitude won't come easily for them. Maybe for some, but for most? I don't know. I do think most will be grateful for having their lives spared. But now what? It will most likely be a hard road ahead for many of them. The wealthy may even have to deal with loss that can't be replaced and the things they have become so accustomed to. But, for those with less monetary means, the road ahead must look pretty bleak as they face the many "mountains" they must cut through or climb over, all the while dealing with old wounds, as new ones are inflicted upon them. Gratitude may come hard.
I pray for them. For their eyes to remain open, their minds understanding the creativity within, and the fortitude to move forward, even if there may be temporary failures. "We are pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." ~ 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
For those of us facing the unexpected (not necessarily as destructive as fire), my voice adds to yours, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." ~Isaiah 41:10
One last thing: God told us that in this world we would have troubles. But that we should not worry because he overcame the world. So could we. His spirit within us...remember?
As always, here you will find me...in Mary's World
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