“C’est la Vie,” say the Old Folks
It is joy and grief to look back over time. Funny, how things work out. A lot of good and well-laid plans never come to fruition. One the other hand, there are successful works done by those drawing a bow at a venture. It is sometimes better to be opportunistic than good. Often, things just work out, and we really don’t know why. It is heartbreaking to fail for the same reason (or lack thereof). Many times, I have personally reached the point of decision and gulped, “Here goes nothing.” The lady or the tiger.
As way leads to way, our lives take shape over time. The decisions we make determine the places we go, and the places we go determine the options available to us. The vows we make to return to the comforts of friends and home are superseded by necessity and obligations. For a time, we cast a wistful eye backward, but eventually have to get down to the business of living. Like seeds borne by the wind, we will land and root somewhere until passing time washes us down. The times and bounds are in the power of the Father- not ourselves.
Who knew which child would rise in life, and which would flounder in defeat? These things are not known beforehand. It is a mystery unfathomable to me how and why my acquaintances (and I) reached the points at which we stand. Such questionings are not without cause. We need to understand that there are many things in life beyond our control and understanding. There is also a spiritual dimension of which we are not always aware, and a sovereign God working His eternal plan.
Much of life is lived without conscious decision-making. To be sure, decisions are made but without a master plan or overriding goal. As to spirituality, we cannot pass our days without thought. It is interesting to me to see who stands the test of time with faith true in God and works firmly in His hands. We live day-to-day, not feeling the encroaching years, until we suddenly have a life and a life’s work. Looking backward, we count the missteps, and our hearts are warmed as we understand the working of God through all.
I see changing you and changing me. Eventually, time reveals the unseen reality working even today. Life may defy our control, but it bows to the will of God. We don’t need to know everything in advance. Discovery is a great part of the joy of living. If our lives are committed to the Father’s hand, the future that we do not see today will be acceptable tomorrow. The old folks know this. Live your life, and let God work through you. Your memories may hurt a little, but they may bring great joy. It goes to show you never can tell.
Sterl
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