The Magic Wand

Once, a counselor asked me if I could wave a magic wand over my life, making it be how I wanted it to be, what would I change?

I thought of that question today. Honestly, I’d only change some of what I do, some of my activities, but not the people.

I’d go see the sunrise at the beach at least once a week instead of only occasionally. I’d start taking painting classes, something I’ve been reserving for old age. I would get back into an adult ballet class and plié and relevé to relaxing classical music with my most graceful port de bras. And especially, I would use that magic wand to start riding again. My wand would be able to conjure up another perfect horse, just like my Diego used to be. I’d ride in a few lessons, but mostly, we’d meander around doing our own thing. And we’d go for rides in the woods again, my daughter and me.

I’d probably also make it a point to meet up with a good friend or two at least once a month over a bottle of wine and a charcuterie board.

Of course, I’d continue my daily talks with God, my devotions, and my family times. Those things won’t change. And I always want to write. I’m so thankful I have a close family and the ability to read and write! And then there’s ministry, so dear to my heart. It’s really an outgrowth of my relationship with God and our family relationships. Love, Love, and share Love.

But the thing is, perfect doesn’t exist. The ideal life doesn’t happen. And if we are always waiting for it, reaching for it, something dangerous might happen. We might miss the very things we are dreaming of and are longing for. Great love and joy might be right here in the midst of our chaotic day, but I might, you might, be waiting (or at least wishing) for perfect so much that we don’t see it.

A perfect day doesn’t have to be flawless. There is much joy and rest in an unexpected rainfall. Much discovery is found in detours. True wisdom and contentment are gained by living through problems, not managing to avoid them. Joy and peace can be found in holding the baby in the middle of a messy house.

Life is Beautiful, the movie, depicted a man in the Nazi concentration camp attempting to make each day count as he spent what was likely his last days with his young son. Rather than being as miserable as his situation, he made everything a game of discovery, even fun, as they spent their last months together. He found beauty in an ugly place. No magic wand was needed for him.

That’s the deal. I’m learning that I don’t need a magic wand, either. I’m sure it was a good question for a counselor to ask, but I don’t need that anymore. I am learning to find beauty, love, peace, and joy in the mess of my life, even if it’s not perfect, even if it contains difficulties.

God is with me in the highs and the lows. Yes, the sunrises and the sunsets are lovely, and I aim to enjoy them. I even hope to ride a horse again. But if not, I can still see beauty and hear God and feel Him near me anywhere and everywhere, actually.

Give me eyes to see, Oh Lord! Give me a grateful heart for all you’ve done daily for me. I open my eyes to see afresh the wonders around me.

2 Corinthians 11:16-33