The Lake District was one of our favorite places of all time. I can still close my eyes and see the little villages, the cobbled paths, the sheep dotted on the hillsides, our four young sons running ahead of us. I can still smell the rain on the grass and hear the rush of my favorite waterfall as it tumbles over the rocks.
I can do this I kept repeating to myself, as I picked up my backpack and dragged my weary body back on to the hillside path. This was only 1500 feet...a mere 1500 feet my son had said. I looked around at all the other families who were cheerfully climbing this monstrous mountain. They all seemed to be doing fine...in fact, they were all passing me by. It was discouraging. I wished I were somewhere else. I looked up to see how far ahead my sons and my husband were...but they were out of sight.
I contemplated sitting down, and just admiring the view from where I was. Maybe I could just meet the rest of my family on their descent?
But I didn't give up. And as I puffed and panted my way around the last peak, I saw something that truly did take my breath away. Nestled quietly on top of that peak was a little lake, shaped like a tear drop, totally hidden from view to climbers below. Who knew it was there? It was an unbelievably beautiful sight, a true reward after all my hard work. And if I had not climbed, I never would have seen it.
And this is what I try to remember when I am feeling weary in ministry, or wishing that I served somewhere else:
- Don't compare yourself to others, especially when they seem to pass you by.
- It's okay to take a break, as long as you get back on track.
- Never quit. Keep climbing- because you don't know what will be there when you reach the top.
Love your writing, the images of the Lake District you've beautifully described, and the lessons learned. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI constantly have to check myself with the first one - don't compare yourself to others. I have to realize everyone has their own path and that we are here to help boost each others' spirits as we walk by, together or behind... xo
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Sandra! You never know when these little life lessons come back to help you!
ReplyDeleteAnd Natalie...that is so much my struggle too. Roosevelt was so right when he said 'comparison is the thief of joy.' Choose joy!
ReplyDeleteI wonder what sets me off to think that way in the first place. If anything, it's all good to be aware of this and to work on it everyday! :D
ReplyDeleteWell remember- when you're working on it, I'll be working on it too!
ReplyDeleteJust what I needed to hear ! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks Johanna!
ReplyDelete