Wildflower photo by Elise Anthony
During a long walk Sunday, I finally indulged my curiosity and took the bridge to an adjacent trail I’ve been curious about.
I always put it off because I love my usual route. I know what to expect and I love the view. It’s comfortable knowing exactly where the trail takes me, how many miles from start to finish, where to rest.
And, during the spring, it’s soothing to know I’m close to home if it starts raining unexpectedly.
Challenging Times Stretch Us
Dandelion photo by Elise Anthony
What do you see when you spot this dandelion?
Some of you are cringing right now, worried about weeds invading your lawn. As I was walking by the lake where my favorite path intersects with this other trail, I noticed several dandelions and I had to resist the desire to pluck them and send those little seeds in flight.
(Some of you are visibly cringing at the idea of your perfect green lawn ruined by a wayward dandelion, am I right?)
I see an astounding aerodynamic masterpiece; a gentle breeze will lift each white tuft with a seed airborne.
Maybe we need to change our perspective. Our pastor John Stickl shared on Palm Sunday that like a rubberband, we are being stretched during this season of uncertainty. Like that rubberband, we have to stretch to take things out, and we also have to stretch to let good things in.
Despite my comfort zone and cloudy skies overhead, I decided to turn toward the other path.
A Fresh Pass
Photo of Denton Creek by Elise Anthony
I’m so glad I took the time for a walk; I would have missed the opportunity to see something new and challenge myself to add another half mile to my step count.
Take Time To Notice The Good Things
Acorn photo by Elise Anthony
Adding those extra steps allows me to slow down and notice nature all around me, which refreshes me for the week ahead.
Soothe The Soul
Nature trail photo by Elise Anthony
With my playlist in my ears, I’m able to meditate and remember the promises of God. My cares always fade away.
More Sidewalk Encouragement
Thank you, sidewalk artist! I needed to see Psalm 103:3.
As I headed back to the main trail, a few first blooms of pink evening primrose — which I used to call buttercups — were starting to open up along the creek banks. I never noticed the little cross. See it now?
Pink evening primrose photo by Elise Anthony
During Pastor Stickl’s message, he closed with several thoughtful questions that I’m working through, and I wanted to share this one:
Where do you feel stretched right now? What is God trying to remove for good?
I hope you find the answers you’re looking for.
— ❤️ Elise