Residents of the West Coast are familiar with winters marked by overcast skies.
However, these past few days have brought us this:
Such breathtaking, clear blue skies! My photography struggles to capture just how stunning they truly are.
Observing the whitecaps on the mountains and the sunlight reflecting on the water led me to ponder weather, and how it mirrors existence.
For instance, if we only had clear days...
...we would not value the bright, blue-sky moments.
Should we never feel sadness...
...we wouldn't recognize happiness.
Light appears much more brilliant against a 'dark' setting.
Photography demonstrates this; the contrast between light and shadow is what makes a picture engaging and lovely.
Life is similar. While we might prefer sunny times, it is the challenging days that build our character. These tough days teach us difficult choices, foster growth, cultivate empathy, and ultimately lead to appreciation for the bright ones. They also reveal our complete reliance on God.
Only through Him can we find TRUE fulfillment, even during somber times.
This brings to mind an old composition:
“God has not guaranteed perpetually blue skies or flower-lined paths all day long.
God has not assured sunshine without rain, joy without grief, or peace without hardship.
BUT God has assured…
endurance for the day, repose for the effort, illumination for the journey
mercy through difficulties, assistance from above.”
{Music by Annie Johnson Flint 1866-1932}
I am unsure of the weather where you are (I hope sunshine approaches soon!)
But right here, today, I am celebrating this clear blue sky
and thankful to the Divine for the breath allowing me to enjoy it.
See Also: Serenity Now
