Another Look

I talked last week about the fact that this is the time of year for many of us to get a little gloomy.  Although the Washington weather continues to be incredibly (and unusually) sunny and beautiful, we are definitely seeing signs of winter and occasionally fall.   It is just so cold.

The other day though, as I was driving one of the boys to a football game, I was on the freeway when the mountains were suddenly all around me as clear as a bell and as beautiful as anything I’ve ever seen.  It literally took my breath away. (These images on this post are just some I’ve taken driving around “town” lately, definitely NOT the image I’m describing here!)

I do not remember the last time I saw anything so beautiful.  With just a touch of snow on the tips, a couple puffy clouds floating around and gorgeous sunlight.  I could have stopped in the middle of the road right then and there to enjoy the view.  I honestly wish I could have, but of course, I had to keep on trucking down the road.

I was in awe of the beauty God has given us and wondered to myself when the last time was that I really, truly appreciated His creation.  I realized that I do NOT do it enough.  I’m so wrapped up in my daily activities and all the things I need to do that I do not take time to “stop and smell the roses”.

There’s a very big reason that saying has remained a classic for as long as it has.  If we do not take time to look at the beauty around us, life becomes dull, difficult, frustrating, overwhelming, etc. You get the picture.   That notion actually surprised me.  Why do we need to look around?  But when I saw that landscape I mentioned before, it actually made me peaceful I could feel my soul being restored and I felt like God was standing right there with me.

This week, can I encourage you to make a commitment to stop at least once each day, step outside (or go to a park) and find beauty in God’s creation?  As you do, take a deep breath and thank Him for all He has given you.   I am pretty sure that by the end of the week you may be shocked at how refreshed and at peace you feel.