My wife and I capped off a whirlwind holiday season with an all-expense paid trip back to New England courtesy of Heather’s sister-in-law, Kelly. We spent two weeks around Christmas and New Year in picturesque, Loudon, NH. The photo on left was taken by our daughter, Kaitlyn. The trailhead is right across the street from my brother-in-law, Craig’s, house where we were staying. One afternoon we bundled up and took a leisurely walk. Naturally, the scenery was striking. But even amidst the beauty I was aware of the fact that not knowing what was around the next corner irked me as much as it intrigued me. Sure there was a bubbling brook to enjoy, but what if we ran into a bear that liked to drink from that brook? More than once I thought about turning back and heading for the warmth of Craig’s woodstove and the familiar confines of my temporary home. But then, the flip side of my fear – the mystery and wonder of what new beauty might lie ahead, kept wooing me on, and even more, was the knowledge that those I was walking with were pressing on. One sojourner in particular was my 6-month-old nephew, Winston-McGregor. I’m not sure what inspired me more, the confident pitter-patter of his little boot-clad feet rambling over the uncertain terrain, or the trust the child put in his father to keep him safe on the path he chose for him. I think I want to take some of that experience with me as I walk into the year ahead. Sure, I can’t see what lies ahead. And sure, there may be bears out there. But inevitably there is mystery and wonder and beauty to be had. I want to trust that beauty and believe in those I walk through life with knowing that my heavenly Father walks with me.
RSS Feed
