Step By Step

Life has been happening.

And that is a good thing.

So, pardon me for not being a better blogger this summer.

On our recent travels together as a family, I realized again just how important play is.

To break away, to rest, to just be.

..together...

Because let's be real, how often does that really happen?

All together--with no agenda, nothing to do, nowhere to go.

No prodding, hustling, (and well, threatening).

It just is.

And it is good.

We climbed dunes--crystal sand high as mountains (and as hot as the Sahara),

with cheers of encouragement coming from the youngest of the group that gave strength and chuckles to the older ones.

"We can do it--together--we can do anything!  Just one step at a time...that's all it takes!"

Just one step.

Just one step at a time.

Owen, you are so wise.

So why do I feel the compulsion to run, to sprint--only to burn out?

Or become completely overwhelmed at the task before, seeing the mountain ahead--and paralysis sets in.

But really, life is only needing to take one step at a time.

And I'm not alone.

Never alone.

Big hands and little ones grasp together, pulling and steadying.  The mountain is steep, but we are together.

High fives and sky high emotions as we tower over Lake Michigan proud of the feat we accomplished--and Mama prouder still of her babe that did it with such grace, insight, and determination.

He is a special kid.

As we sat in the shade catching our breath just to lose it again at the expanse of the view, I caught glimpse of Shawn's shirt--"Life is Good."

Yes, life is good.

Even in the struggle of the mountains that we face each day--and for some, each hour, minute or second--we struggle forward together, sweaty hands grasped tight.

For it is on the mountain that we encounter the Creator--the one who gave us all things, who reminds us that even still,

life. is. good.

No wonder mountains are holy places.

For it is from this place, we are given a new perspective.

God, thank you for this life.

Thank you for not only meeting me on the mountain, but even in the journey of struggle to the peak. For you walk with me all along--just as you always do.  Sometimes I am just so blinded by the sun and heat and wind, I fail to notice those blessings you place within my hands, both big and small helping me forward,

step by step.

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