Left Behind

Sometimes it takes a lot to inspire my writing. I need to quiet myself, fast for a day or so, pray, fill my head with Christian music, pray some more and then concentrate. Other times, it just hits me like a ton of bricks. When I came across this photo on a friend's webpage http://flickr.com/photos/36471314@N00/, God spoke volumes to me through this image.

I see this photo of dead corn, and I am in awe. The color captures my senses. The image fills my head. The fact that the corn is pointing downward like it is depressed, lifeless and therefore worthless....how often have I felt this way? The PICTURE says 'DEAD', the photographer gives it life.

Upon further investigation of the subject, you will see that it is indeed a sunny day. The shadows imply it is the end of the day- but there is still sun. An optimist may assume it is sunRISE not sunSET. You will also notice that there are kernels on the cob. Those kernels are life-giving. If a deer, squirrel or bird eats those kernels, it will sustain them for another day. You see the husks protecting those nuggets of nourishment from the elements so they can cling to the cob until they are needed.

During the times when I have felt dead, depleted, and at the sunset of my day, I know that I still have as much worth as this cob of corn. I know that God is there to protect me from the harsh elements and keep my treasures from being stolen or wasted before their time. I know that I still have something to offer the world, even when I feel useless and dead.

One of my dearest spiritual mentors was lying in her hospital bed dying of cancer when she was visited by the clergy on call. I retreated to the corner of the room to allow them time together and witnessed something that will live with me forever. He did his duty, prayed for her and turned to leave. Before he did, she asked if she could pray for HIM. She took his hands in her own and thanked God for his presence there despite the dinner hour and his family duties. She acknowledged his service and prayed for his blessing. As she spoke, he began to cry ( I did also). He explained that his duties that night had been mechanical and her witness to him provided him with the refreshment he needed to renew his faith, not only for that day, but for coming days. As she died, she gave back life.

It only takes the right person to see the light in others...to acknowledge their gifts...to see them for what they ARE, not what they appear. Beauty, purpose and worth can be found in the harshest of places, under the worst of circumstances...one need only look through the eyes of God.