One Moment in Time

I thought I understood the concept of “One Moment in Time”, until I became unemployed against my will. The journey that followed was dark, treacherous. slow going, uphill, unkind, contained one disappointment after another, and contained very few victories.

There were times when I was content to feel nothing. I longed for peace of mind from the dark cloud that always seemed to hover over head where ever I went. I came to appreciate any time when the sun would come out. I would stop what ever I was doing or thinking to take in the beauty of a flower, or a bird, or children at play.

I spend month after month trying to solve problems that would get me off this never-ending path. I tried to appreciate any break in the long haul or any moment when I could enjoy being alive. I tried to pause the game when ever I was around a loved one. I learned to appreciate every moment they were with me, knowing that they would soon be on their way…living their own life. Many times I longed to go with them and be them for a while. I fantasied for just a moment to ease the doubt and fear of the unknown in my own life.

My days became so tedious with what I had to do to get over the muck and the mire that had been cast upon me. Most of the time it felt as if I was running on a treadmill getting nowhere. I would at last clear some debris to shed some light on the path…only to have more tumble down from out of nowhere. I was kept in a state of heightened awareness constantly waiting for the next obstacle. I was discouraged, distraught, and frankly on the brink of giving up.

I learned to appreciate the conflicts as signs of life. I came to rival in the struggle…knowing that it would soon be over and I would possibly have a chance to take in a deep breath and enjoy a moment of quiet. I became proud of what I had overcome. Glad that I had not kept still… doing nothing…accepting my fate. Instead I was continually trying to better my situation.

I owe my strength to having my friend Jesus near. I talked to Him about all that was happening and it kept me from being a victim of my circumstances. I also had wise counsel from family and friends who also offered many prayers on my behalf. It made me feel loved and cared for. Those feelings in full force can fortitude the weakest of souls.

Having faith and trust in an unseen being who has the power to change your life is the point of being a Christian. It may seem like folly to most. Believing in a god written thousands of years ago in an ancient text that had been buried for centuries…may to some seem insane. But to me…my faith that Jesus will never leave or forsake me is the rock of my belief system.

I have learned through all of this to not take moments for granted. I am quicker to rejoice when blessings come. I try to be kind and thoughtful to everyone. If someone is harsh or thoughtless…I hold my tongue and try to not take it personal. I enjoy listening more than I do talking. I am open and ready to learn from others. I try not to boast or call attention to myself. I am glad for every small accomplishment. I try to not look at the past. I focus on the future one hour at a time. I appreciate the people in my life. I lean on people who have faith in God. I try not to take the world too seriously…God is in control. I enjoy the simple things in my life. I practice humility…it brings me extreme peace of mind. I get great joy in being with the children in my life. I pray often and study the Bible daily. The words in the Bible are the substance of the foundation on which I stand. Yes, the Bible is an ancient text…and my God who wrote it…. is timeless.