A funny thing happens when we start to reflect on our
past... we begin to see things in a way that often reveals how
many circumstances, conversations, chance meetings, etc. were
more related than we may have originally thought.
I believe that certain things in life are sort of like a
game of connect-the-dots. At birth, we are given a blank sheet
of paper and as our lives move forward small dots are placed
along the way as sort of a marker to remind us of our
experiences. When we reflect, we begin to connect those dots
to form a picture that was unseen in the beginning. We start
to see how the places we have been, the interactions we have
had with others, and even how some of the pain and suffering
we have experienced are all connected and have helped us move
from dot to dot along the page.
As our journey continues, and we draw the lines from dot to
dot, a magnificent image begins to take shape. Sometimes the
distance between two dots is small and other times the
distance seems rather spaced apart but the reality is that
each dot is significant to its place on the page. Without each
dot being in the right place at the right time, the portrait
of our lives would not unfold for us to see.
This is why reflection is so important. Looking back on our
lives with open eyes to see the miracles that happen to us
everyday should give us faith to know that each one of us has
a masterpiece that is being created within. While we may not
control each dot or the distance between, there is a skilled
artist who is guiding the way, planning each dot before it
even happens.
Yes, there are many good dots along the way but there are
also the dots that can cause us to loose perspective of the
image taking shape. Perhaps you have been fired from your job
and think all is lost. Maybe you are in a relationship that is
going down hill or someone who has just been hurt emotionally
or physically due to something beyond your control. Maybe you
are a great person who does all the right things and you just
feel like you cannot catch a break or get ahead... well, these
are all just dots on the page.
Each dot, while significant, is just a dot on its own. It
is when you begin to connect them all together and see how one
had to come before the other, that you truly begin to see the
beauty of the overall portrait taking shape.
So this week, be encouraged to reflect on your life and
look for the dots. The good dots and the bad. Begin to connect
them and see how each one is important in creating your
masterpiece. As you see the connection between each dot, have
faith that there is a plan for your life. Know that you are
not ultimately in control and that your portrait will be
revealed to you as you trust and let go of your fears, your
anxiety, and your ego. You can't control where each dot is
placed but you can look back to see how each dot has helped
you grow in order to move on to the next. Become more
accepting of those little thoughts in your head that tell you
to say "hello" to someone whom you do not know. Recognize that
nudging feeling you get when something inside speaks to you
and says to reach out and help someone today. These small and
often ignored feelings may just be another dot on your page,
getting you closer and closer to seeing the big picture.
Your Partner in Kindness,
-Daniel
Kindness. It starts with you, pass it on.
