A Beam of Light in the Corners of Darkness

So Trust, so Conquer, so Joy... Love colours the way... Love takes the sting out of the wind of adversity.  

 Observation is defined as: an act or instance of regarding attentively or watching. It requires oneself to set aside their own awareness while projecting it onto others. A writer knows that around every corner, there is a chance their next main character for their book, maybe revealed.

Spilling over to my perception of others and my surroundings, I once had a retired Ontario Police officer teach me skills of driving, which gave me insight.

This past week, day in and out, my life saw my feet walk in the steps of others. I let the broken voices echoing across the continent release their hardship into mine. In doing this, I was aware of my environment and could freely serve others. Whether it was praying over those in need or taking the time to engage conversation with people, I did something I have struggled with…I listened with all my senses. Not only to the voices of individuals but also to God speaking to me.

To clarify there never have been any burning bushes or dark cloudbursts where the Lord appeared to me. Nor have I seen the face of Jesus in the cup of my Timmies.

I became aware of communication between God and I when He called me to salvation…since then, God has never stopped calling me and in doing so, I was put into ministry for Him. In previous blogs, I have shared of many God-driven moments where I was called upon to speak with someone, intervene or simply pray over a person. To understand the enormity of this, God took one of the most flawed, broken sinners and said Yes, you will do just fine! 

Many years ago, when I was washed in the water of Baptism, I believed I would have a thousand angels on my side and life would be so much easier. Truth is, I would suffer massive tragedies, losses, and sacrifice things that I loved. What made all of the difference was having my faith to guide me. Taking hold of me was ultimate healing and receiving the spoken word, with my soul on fire. This revelation may surprise others who see me as labels. When I look in the window of The Salvation Army, I see a woman who is forgiven, blameless and redeemed.

This week, while others gathered in prayer for me, I let myself be guided to those who boldly remind me…I am most fortunate in my circumstances.

Reading Global news, I discovered a true warrior, who resides in Edmonton.

10 yr old Rheanna Trepanier fell ill on Halloween. To the anguish of her family, it was discovered while in treatment in Hospital that she has four tumours and only has a few months to live. Now, she and her family are planning to live out the bucket list Rheanna has created. A piece of canvas, displays vivid colours, where this brave care-free spirit painted her hands and placed upon the surface; a memento for her family to treasure.

Everything from artwork to planned trips sees her resilience cast away fear, as this young girl has much to do. 

By the time I have finished reading the article, my tired eyes are brimming with tears. I have lived 45 years in this world, not all have been easy, but I LIVED. A decade of existence is going to end for Rheanna and yet I see this little girl as unbreakable.

All I can do from afar is wrap my prayers around this child. Even when the pain seems too overwhelming for her, I won`t stop sending love to Rheanna and her family.

The other day, as I drove through the city, I stopped at the lights. On the corner, beside my vehicle there stood an elderly woman, bent over- her body resembling an ancient gnarled oak. I could see the rain transfer onto her translucent skin. Her knuckles resembled mini tree knots, while her grey curls were matted with droplets, from the sky. I felt called to pray for her…someone`s grandmother, whose body held stories of a life lived. 

In the evening, walking past a doorway I saw two First Nations people settling onto the dampness of the broken cement. I watched as the woman picked up a slew of garbage, as if she was cleaning the front porch of her home. Her companion waited patiently and as they went to lay down, he lovingly took his jacket and placed it upon her. Huddled together, amongst the soggy cigarette butts, they did not look like they had anything worthy. Yet through my eyes, I observed the deep bonds of devotion to one another. 

As well, I envisioned their ancestors, settling into caverns of geographical nature, amongst a canopy of sugar maples and clusters of wildflowers. The roots that grow deep and unite still remain, though circumstances have changed. 

While writing my last blog post at the local McDonald`s, someone caught my attention. They had long wisps of hair, with a crown of silver that reminded me of a halo. I observed their ensemble as a wave of black draped over a tiny frame. My eyes fell upon their shoes…or inventive display of footwear. Once a pair of flip-flops, each sole flowed in duct tape, wrapped around each foot. Only after taking a tattered envelope and counting what change they had, did they whisper their order to the cashier. I could not take my eyes off of them as I gazed down upon my own shoes, wishing I had an extra pair to gift. I bowed my head in prayer for this unknown stranger over their shortcomings. I reflected on the day when freedom will all be ours and we walk in love and peace together. 

There is no condemnation in the people I have written about, as they do serve a glorious purpose; each a reminder that in strength we conquer.

While suffering has a purpose in this world, I believe clipped wings can grow again… whether in the earthly world or heaven bound, He is our Refuge.

By TL Alton