Admonishments come in from everywhere: “Don’t look back”. “There is no good wallowing in the past”. But the past can bring a light into the present. But how?
Trudging up the fairway to the elevated green pondering how they could possibly have ALL 18 holes UPHILL, I stop to catch by breath.
I turned around looking behind me and immediately gasped with the beauty of where I had been. The lush green velvety fairway lined with swaying palm trees, led my eyes to the sparkling ocean below lapping up to the rocky slide. What a breath-taking view in this catbird’s seat.
Sometimes you have to stop, turn around, and look at things from another perspective.
Yes, looking backwards offers cause for celebration. As in life, sometimes we have to look back to see where we have just come from to grasp just where we are. We need to see the starting point, and celebrate the milestones that have paved the way for our journey. We need to appreciate the journey, savoring the trek of our everyday jaunt.
Little memoires then, blossom into being your big memories now. These big memories morph into your life.
Like a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, you can turn the wheel to see how all the episodes work together making a “This is Your Life” picture.
As I walk through my house, I catch a glimpse many photographs of past occasions that were once “memorable” enough for a photo, but now take on a “more special” significance as the years roll by. Loved ones departed, friends who have moved on, and everyday beauty that had been taken for granted all captured in a snapshot.
Our lives are made of small moments looking back!
What can we do to capture the beauty of times past?
- Bless those that participated in those happy times. Thank God for the wonderful people who have brought you smiles, pointing out the joy on your road. Send a prayer of thanksgiving for ALL those people who have crossed your path, making you the person you are today.
- If the times, weren’t so happy say a prayer of thanksgiving for the opportunity to learn. Remember that we all get what we need along the way. It may not be what we want, but God, being all wise and loving, will provide the needed situations for our growth. “Thank you, Lord, for this opportunity to learn.”
While we don’t want to get weighed down longing, regretting or wallowing in our past and know that our lives are in front of us; we don’t want to miss the value of where we have been.
So as we climb the fairway of life, take a moment to look back, reflect and appreciate the people and circumstances that have carried you to your very unique place. Enjoy each and every minute of this day.
