For you, my beloved friends. "We love because He first loved us." -John 4:19
Tenderness of Vision
There is something awe-inspiring about the narrow path, especially when it permeates every aspect of one's life. It has this tendency to change a person- to reroute their thinking. It contains this ability to fog out the things that are not important, while simultaneously illuminating those that are. It gives an individual eyes to see the beauty in the minuscule, and offers this tenderness of vision that wouldn't be possible if clouded by the business of the wide road.
Throughout my 18 years, I have always had a tendency to cling to a small group of friends. To avoid the large crowds and attach myself to a quaint little village of reliable loved ones. They say that the smaller the home, the less there is to clean. You see, the less that one has, the more time they have to value and focus on the things that they do. The less- then- becomes their more.
I see my friends through this telescopic lens. When I look at them, I view individuals that each have this well of bountiful blessings, talents, and passions. I see these people that are more unique than words can express, and it hurts my heart when they fail to perceive that about themselves. I see these creations of God that have barely dipped their hands into the well that they have been given, and have so much more to discover about the value of themselves, the possibilities at their fingertips, and the world at large.
Oh, I see these people that are the Lord's, and that He loves with an everlasting love. I see these souls with a purpose, that I pray with all of my being that they reach the fullness of. I see these hearts with internal beauty, their outer bodies merely shells to carry their spirits. I see the work that God has started in them, and hope to also see it come to completion. I see these flowers of eternal hope amidst a field of earthly weeds that lack promise. I see the best in these people, because Jesus' sacrifice bought us that right- even amidst our shortcomings. When I see my friends, I see my inspirations. I see gems that shine brightly- the lights of the world. My quaint little village, set on a hill that cannot be hidden.
When I think of a friend, I think about how I would be doing a great disservice if I ever failed to acknowledge the value of each of mine.
When I think of a friend, I think of a God-send. I think of a reason, regardless of circumstances.
When I think of a friend, I think of the immense potential and worth to be found in each individual.
When I think of a friend, I think of ways to show them that worth, even in the days, months- or even years- that they do not have eyes to see it for themselves.
When I think of a friend, I think of someone at their most vulnerable and imperfect state, and loving them even more at that moment than I would of in their "perfection."
When I think of a friend, I think of a lifetime.
When I think of a friend, I think of someone with a story, and feel honored that they allow me to be even one page in that entire novel.
When I think of a friend, I think of how blessed I am to witness the beauty of one of God's creations so up-close. To see them for who they really are.
When I think of a friend, I think of you- and I'll never be able to express enough how much you mean to me. You are deeply loved, by God and by Kayla.
How often do we have tiny-home, narrow path focus? How often do we reflect on the tenderness that this would add to our vision?
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