For thirteen days, I was away. And for thirteen days, I have not written anything new until now. It is the longest I have been away from my digital oasis, this little nook of mine filled with descriptive words and images of many colours. Coincidentally, this has also been the longest hiatus I’ve had this year. Has it bothered me? In some ways, yes. However, I have also been bombarded with so many good things that it has been difficult to return and reflect here.
After all, travelling always takes up precious time. Yet, there are always more minutes in the day to pray, to appreciate, to love, and so much more. I could still chase after phases of the moon. Look up at the sky and see the moon at waxing, half, and even when full—it just takes a second. But to really acknowledge its presence and appreciate the lunar light takes a little longer. Perhaps I am a bit of a lunatic. Still, may I challenge you in asking whether you will let God’s handiwork give your life pause so that you can give thanks for His marvellous gifts?
Amidst the chaos, it is a good thing to stop and pray, trusting in God over your plans. The last thirteen days, oh what a mess it has been! Being back home has its familiar flavour of busy. From being flown back home on business class because of my injury and the handful of subsequent medical appointments, to sorting through the endless trove of content and revealing it to the world… I’ve had such a wonderful time with rich and new experiences, in both the good and the bad. All things in which I have the privilege of giving thanks.
In thirteen days, so much can change. And it’s strange to say, but I’m almost certain I haven’t felt this happy in a long time. Many things in my life have not changed—it seems as if I won’t ever propel my career forward, and there is a profound grief in knowing I may never find that kind of success. However, I have found much comfort in spending so much time with God, despite facing unfavourable outcomes, and a genuine joy in the world He has created. My eyes are so full of wonder, and I am afraid it may fade.
During my travels, God gently and graciously reminded me what it was like to hope and to wholeheartedly believe in humanity once more. And I would like to remember that for a long time, and forget the scars brought about by the chronic pain of betrayals and hurt. All the strangers I met on my journey were kind, curious, and sometimes odd and fun! I was shaken to my core. And what a strange turn of events to slowly recall such beauty! It was a taste as sweet as honey.
On paper, thirteen days is what it took for things to change—to appear brighter and full of life. But I bet you haven’t counted the time and effort it took to lay down the groundwork for happier moments and thoughts. People seldom see the struggle behind the whipped cream and sprinkles. Please don’t drown your bitterness with sugar and expect the pain to go away. I hope you can face it, and when you can’t, I hope you have the courage to give it to God.
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