The whole picture

Last week was ridiculously hot.  We're talking, mid to high 90s and even breaking 100 degrees kind of ridiculously hot.  Though I may have spent the last 4 years in Los Angeles, I'm a NorCal native through and through, and let me tell you, I am no fan of this kind of weather.

For one thing, I like to be outside.  I hate being stuck inside all day, having to keep the shades shut to keep the sun rays out.  My energy level is inversely proportional to the temperature.  The higher the thermometer reading, the lower my likelihood to be willing to do pretty much anything active.

However, since I know these sunny days are limited and that Autumn and Winter will soon follow, I cut myself a deal.  On days I work, I usually don't have to be anywhere until a little after noon, so there's no chance I'm going to force myself out of bed to run at 8am, while it's still comfortable outside.  I can, however, find a cooler way to get my booty out of the house.

A few weeks ago I discovered another new trail in my forest.  It's beautiful.  Don't get me wrong, it's no Redwood Forest or Fern Canyon (yes, I grew up here, and yes, you should be jealous).  But it's nice.  And it's shady.  And it's cool.

Earlier this week on my daily outing, I brought my Bible with me and decided to really soak it in.  I hiked in for a while and found a quiet spot against a tree to pause.  I just sat for a few minutes and felt myself relax.  How many times since coming here 2 months ago have I pounded over the leaves and roots of the trees and not heard the woodpeckers?  How many times have I brushed past a spiderweb and not noticed the Maple seeds spiraling to the ground?  There were so many more sounds to take in and details to examine once I sat still.

I wonder how much this corresponds to my attitude in life.  I love going to see new places--I've not often in my 23 years said no to a foreign adventure.  But when I embark upon these adventures, how much do I really see?  Am I just running on my trail, eager to see what lies around the next bend?  Or am I willing to sit patiently and quietly, observing the intricate details that together form the whole picture?

So, here's my reminder, and yours if you need it as well:  take a step back, open your eyes and enjoy life.  Not just the snapshot that everyone sees, but really examine it from your point of view to see what really makes life beautiful.

Grace and peace,
Hilary