The Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu said,” The journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step!”
As I read it from the wall at our place of business, it struck me the other day about the reality of what that means. I know life is a journey and can take us down a path we didn’t really plan on taking. Sometimes I’ve wondered how one gets to the other side of grief when you have lost that special person in your life. Or is that even possible? You may have come through pain and grief beautifully and can explain it far better than me. I know for me it seems to be a process in this journey.
Rick Warren, the founder of Saddleback church, said “transformation is a process, and as life happens there are tons of ups and downs. It’s a journey of discovery—there are moments on the mountaintops and moments in the deep valley of despair.” In my discovery I find that I must “press on.” When there are those times that I am challenged and overcome with grief moments, it is then when I must stop and think to be thankful even during trials. There is something about gratitude that helps me to see the many countless blessings around me and how God is always at work.
James, the younger brother of Jesus said, “You know the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:3-4, NIV) Further study of the word perseverance, or some translations say patience, is to persevere meaning to endure, (despite our difficulties), stay on the path, to carry on, to remain under. I know sometimes we may feel like what’s the use, or who even cares. I have a short answer for that, God does! I believe God wants to help produce patience in us, endurance, and the ability to keep going when things are tough.
I stepped out and into what I used to enjoy doing again. COOKING & BAKING! Even though I am nothing like the abilities of those on Chopped, Top Chef, or Hell’s Kitchen, I had acquired a love for working in the kitchen because of trial and error with the many years of raising a hungry army. Thankfully children will eat anything when they are hungry. Taking a class to make Beef Wellington recently took me over the top! I quickly discovered it must be the entrée of Kings when I found out the cost of the beef. But none the less, it is an amazing dish!! And besides, I think I may have my spunk back for the kitchen!!
Catherine Booth said, “If we are to better the future, we must disturb the present.” Maybe there is a different path you must take in your journey. Whatever it is I would encourage you to press on……it only takes one small step to begin.
Blessings, Sharon
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