The Simple

I feel pressure to write something profound, earth-shaking, mind-set changing; like the kind of things people write when they leave an old year and go into a new one. I’m just afraid the words will come out obnoxious and reused, and I will look back and agonize that I ever actually thought like that when the calendar went from 2008 to 2009. But I want to write, so I’m going to, even if it comes out completely cliche.

Thought: Is it possible that the simplest thing could bring the biggest breakthrough?

Reflection: Thinking about the years that have gone by, the heroes who have inspired me, the dreams that have stayed with me through the years (even if at times they felt dim), the adventures that have changed me, the people who have opened my eyes to the vastness of life. It is hilarious the twists and turns of life—and the way lessons are learned when you did not even seek a tutor. More times this year than ever before, the lessons had to smack themselves into my stubborn resolve to ignore wisdom, yet I’m so thankful that the Tutor did come—and that He chastens because He loves.

Life and trusting God is a different process than I expected. I thought that I was someone who was okay with the adventure of trusting God, and that nothing could ever touch my focus. Yet, I’ve found that I’m not as strong as I thought, and 2008 proved that to me. It was a long year—too complex to write about in a short note. It was also a good year, but also a terrifyingly honest year in showing me….well, me. No regrets, though. Just excitement that who I am is not the final product; that where I’ve been is not going to stop me from journeying to the place I’m going. What I learned yesterday was not in vain—nothing wasted, nothing broken beyond restoration.

And thinking back I am struck by how the simplest of words, the simplest of songs, and the simplest of prayers…have broken through the most boldly and convincingly into my heart. Maybe it is the simplest of resolutions that bring the most change, and the slightest turn that saves a life.

Where I’ve had a difficult time hearing and it’s been hard seeing this past year, I know it is partially because I forgot how profound and life-giving it is to keep things simple. I let things get cluttered, trying hard to prove something to someone (who I cannot even define), and in the process forgetting the One who it’s all about anyways. I’m resolved to return to the simple. I want to get back into the habit of saying, “Speak Lord,’” because then, “life will become a romance…one great romance, a glorious opportunity for seeing marvelous things all the time.” (Chambers)

Cliche or not, the truth still stands:

Marvelous things are waiting to be seen.
All the time.
And now is the time to seize such a glorious opportunity.