Reflections on Life

Some days things seem really clear, other days they are a blur, and sometimes the obvious things are not obvious at all. Context and perspective are key. But they are not always the full image.

Sometimes our focus changes and we find that our reflections are not enough for us to see clearly. In fact the view can be obstructed, sometimes by a screen of our own making. We get a sense of what is out there, but we are distracted by other things, more immediate things, things that are closer to home.

If we are honest we will acknowledge the screens that we put in the way. But those screens have a very practical purpose, they protect us from things on the outside that we don't want to let in. Sure they might obstruct the view - a little - but they are important.

But if we are really honest we will concede that there may be some pretty serious cracks in this whole picture that we have so carefully created for ourselves. Sometimes the cracks are invisible, when you look at them from the right angle - barely noticeable. But other times they are fully revealed by the light, and we can feel vulnerable and exposed. The cracks can be caused by a sudden event, or just induced by the stresses of circumstance. 

We resist and resist, but eventually it becomes too much... and we crack.

In the midst of all this it is important to understand that it is our resistance that often causes our catastrophic failure. If we were more flexible, more malleable, less concerned about maintaining appearances and appearing strong, perhaps then we could adapt to the stresses of our circumstances rather than fracture before them.

But there is something beautiful in accepting our brokenness, and the brokenness of those around us. When we acknowledge our vulnerability, and the fact that we are not perfect, we become more real, not less. 

Marred - certainly - but the scars are a reflection of having fully lived. What they mean now is that we need to be gentle, with ourselves and with others. No longer living recklessly, but with kindness and thoughtfulness. 

With self-control.