It was back in December that I wrote about the image of a paper white bulb. It didn’t look like much. Its roots sought sustenance. It held within it hidden possibilities. It eventually would flourish. Blossom gloriously.
Boy, howdy!
The paper white experiment turned out quite differently. I got a rash from the bulb. And although it still hasn’t bloomed, the leaves have remained green. There are signs of life.
So, what’s with that?
And really, more importantly, why would it matter?
First, I won’t bore you with details of the irritation that it caused. The worst part was the literal unrest. Eventually and in time I experienced healing.
But would you mind if we take a minute with that in a metaphorical kind of meander?
You need to know that I am a fan of conflict--not the kind where people are killed and maimed--but the spiritual kind that offers both danger and opportunity. Those things by which I am irritated and frightened bring both a sense of danger and an opportunity for some real growth.
Sound familiar?
So, what about your life right now? Maybe things haven’t turned out the way you expected. While your plans still show signs of life, none of us are sure what’s happening next.
We do what we can to stay safe. Pray for those who are in contact with the disease. Practice good self-care and use protective measures. Show compassion as best we can.
Many folks I know have had something to say about hopeful change during this time of pandemic. Many are grateful to slow down and love each other.
That’s something.
YOUR TURN:
Where do you feel conflicted at this time?
Have you experienced both danger and opportunity?
Where have you found Hope?
Where have you loved and been loved?