The View

The first time I took off walking up the hill from my house, I was surprised. I am an avid walker, so I like to think I am in pretty good shape. But oh man, this hill was a challenge! I found myself huffing and panting long before I made it to the top.

Soon, I had mastered this hill and others in my new neighborhood. Being able to reach the top of my street at last, I decided to challenge myself a bit further. I continued on up the hill, on a street with little else around it but brush.

The first time, I was nervous. I wondered if I was going to make it? I also wondered what was up there? Was I safe? But I wanted to see what the view was like from the top of this hill, so I trudged on.

When I reached the acme, I realized that the edge of the hill was too far from the road, and the view I had anticipated was not in sight. So I found a little trail where the brush was worn down, and bravely took it to the edge. I admit my heart was pounding, as I had no idea what I was walking into. The reward was amazing!! Someone had even built a wooden bench in this little spot, and as I beheld the view, it took my breath away!

Lately, I've noticed that others must be enjoying this hill. There are beer cans, Red Bull cans and other litter carelessly thrown around. This morning I was getting frustrated with all of the trash, but then I looked up. Wow! I was in awe again, as I took in the view before me. The river, the mountains, and the trees...I could see for miles! In the face of such beauty, while feasting my eyes on the glory of creation, the trash at my feet was quickly forgotten.

In that moment, I realized that every day we have a choice. We can focus on all of the litter and all of the bad around us. Or we can choose to look up, gaining a new perspective. I  was also made aware that this is my job...my honor, really...to keep myself trained in looking up and enjoying the view from this glorious perspective; and to remind those around me who have become bogged down by all of the litter around them, to look up as well.

I am going back up the hill right now with some gloves and a trash bag, so I can clean up the litter. This is another privilege in life. In serving, I get to help those around me clean up the litter in their lives so that they are less easily distracted from the beauty of the view.

Because Of You...

Dear Mom,

I am thinking of you today. I am thinking about all that you taught me by your example.

Because of you, I learned what selflessness looks like. I remember our landlords in the house we rented during most of my growing up years. I remember she was an older woman and quite a character. She would call, late at night, and it was clear she had been drinking. You would go next-door, even though I'm you sure didn't want to, and listen to her rants, dry her tears, and help her to bed. You always showed her compassion. Then in the daylight, you graciously acted as if nothing had happened. You restored her dignity with your love. You taught me that love covers.

Because of you, I learned that all people have value. I remember when I was an adolescent, and my brother had an African American lady-friend who was very ill. You (of course) had him bring her to our house, where you could care for her. You bathed her fevered head with cool washcloths, and you nursed her back to health. I never wondered why, for I knew that was just what a Mom does. Thanks, Mom...for showing me that love doesn't see color, it sees humanity. You taught me the beauty of serving.

Because of you, I learned the art of listening. You would listen for hours to anyone in need...on the phone, or in person. You always listened without judgment...sharing a word of wisdom when it was needed. Thanks, Mom...for never turning me away, or making me feel like what I had to share wasn't important. You taught me that love listens...love hears.

Because of you, I acquired the ability to think about how other people might be feeling, and what they might be going through. You always pointed out to me what difficulties could be contributing to their behavior. You taught me to try and see from another perspective. You taught me compassion. Thanks, Mom...there isn't enough compassion in this world. I am glad I was given this gift.

Because of you, I have always known that I am delightful...just for being "me". I realize now what a treasure your unconditional love was and is in my life. I have met countless adults who have had to work through trying to earn love, from their spouses, and ultimately from God. I don't struggle with this, having been taught from my earliest memories that I am deserving of love just because I am. This knowledge has carried me through life without the burden of attempting to be pleasing by my behavior, and it has ultimately allowed me to receive the glorious gift of God's grace without question. Thanks, Mom...for giving me the gift of self.

Because of you, I learned that God is real. We didn't attend church, and part of me is even thankful for that as well. I know so many people who were raised with religion, and the law, and have had to spend years relearning the truth of who God really is. You always talked about God as if He was your friend. You reminded me of His goodness, when you would reassure me that things had a way of turning out good...no matter how painful they might seem. You encouraged me to pray, and to be thankful. Thanks, Mom...for the gift of knowing.

Because of you, I have never doubted God's existence. Because of you, I have always known that I am delightful to Him. Because of you, I have eyes to see the hurting and downtrodden. Because of you, I don't fear those who look different than me. Because of you, I am able to give of myself, and be a good listener, and love with abandon...and partly because of you, I am me.

I can't believe it's been almost 16 years since you passed on to glory.
Because of you, I've always known what a good Mom looks like...and a Mom is what I always wanted to be.

I love you, Mom. Happy Mother's Day!