With each season flows a new perspective. With hope and expectancy I always anticipate a graceful transition; turning a fresh page into a new chapter of life-letting forgiveness take it’s toll. As a touring musician, minutes turn into hours, which turn into days and conclude as one huge memory without designated ‘days’ or ‘weeks’. I typically look back over time and decipher time by seasons. Fall is especially my favorite, the cooler weather tends to trap me indoors and slows me down- in a good way. My to-do list fills up with books I've been meaning to read, journaling my life stories on the road, and most important- sitting still and processing my thoughts. There's no disclosure that each of us are running- racing our days away in hopes to stay on top of social media, get that promotion, or catch the next days sunrise on instagram, or what have you. My conscious keeps offering this reoccurring thought that we’re actually missing out on life and time itself by running ourselves on the treadmill of dissatisfaction- passing up the life right in front of our eyes.
With this mindset, I’m treading lightly into this week and giving myself time. Time for my thoughts, time for my prayers, and time to be thankful.
I recently lost a huge inspiration in my life, a friend, and mentor that taught me things that truly matter. This man was a violin maker and recently hand crafted a violin especially from me. During our afternoon visits he would regularly share his lifetime of dreams. Some came true, and others didn't even come close. As he shared the stories of mountains and valleys of a lifetime, he never failed to emphasis the heart and spring of his compassion and love towards people and change- his relationship with Jesus Christ. This unexpected tragedy has shaken me out of cruise control and caused me to reflect a little deeper and generate more love towards people. As we all travel home to our family or friends for the Holidays, I challenge you to go the extra mile in love and appreciation for your people. Give yourself an extra hour with someone and consciously listen with gratitude- let it tenderize your heart and break your ideals. As a young woman, I find myself focusing on myself and my inner dialogue of struggles- stressing over circumstances that won't even matter tomorrow. But as I continue to learn how to cast my subconscious and hard thoughts on Him, and veer my vision towards gratitude, it’s made all the difference. Clothing yourself in thankfulness can feel a whole lot like wearing your most favorite sweater- you know, the one thats pilled and perfect- the feeling of home!
s-u-f-j-a-n-s-t-e-v-e-n-s
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