What Are You Looking At?
The other day at work, I was struck by the passing comment of a co-worker who told me “There are no more ‘firsts’ to look forward to.” When he said these words, it sounded so sad to me. Whether he meant it this way or not, it seemed like he didn’t have a whole lot to look forward to anymore. I began to question him in my own mind and I almost said a few things to him before I caught myself. What did I have to say to him? He’s my senior by fifteen or so years, and I haven’t lived the life that he has lived.
As I thought more of this conversation today, I realized that my dad had a similar conversation with my grandmother in the last few years of her life. She had said goodbye to my grandfather a few years earlier and she was living in the nursing care wing of the home where my grandparents had moved many years ago in preparation for these years. My dad talked to my grandmother every week on the phone. I’m not sure if this conversation took place on the phone or face-to-face (I’ll leave those details to my dad), but my grandmother had something rather profound to share with my dad that he passed down to us.
She said, “Norm (that’s my dad’s name), I’ve lived a long life. I’ve seen and experienced many things. I feel like I’ve experienced just about all there is to experience in life. I’m ready to die. I haven’t experienced that yet, and I’m excited to see what that brings.”
I don’t know if I have the words exact, but I think you get the gist.
My grandmother still found hope in the hard times of life – when her body and even her mind were wearing out – she still looked to heaven as something exciting – a new first.
I’m 46 years old (or young depending on how you look at it), and I believe I still have many more firsts to experience on this side of heaven. I’m looking forward to seeing my kids graduate from college. I’m looking forward to their weddings. I’m looking forward to meeting and getting to know my grandkids (no pressure intended Hannah and Isaac). I’m looking forward to the “empty nest” with my wonderful wife, Leanne. I’m looking forward to retirement from my job at Siemens – one day. And I’m looking forward to the opportunities that will come in retirement from corporate America. I don’t know exactly how it will all play out, but I believe I will experience many, many more firsts and unbelievable experiences before I pass from this earth.
One thing I am learning though in the midst of watching my own parents and from observing others, I am so looking forward to heaven, but I’m also thankful for the life I get to live right now. I am challenged to hold loosely to the things of this earth – to be thankful for them, but to let go when necessary. I’m also challenged to hold tightly to the things that will last – my faith, my hope for eternity, and my relationships.
The Bible talks about “always being prepared to give a reason for the hope you profess.”
I’m so thankful for that hope. I pray I may be prepared to share that hope. As I look back on that conversation with my co-worker the other day, I pray I didn’t miss the opportunity to share hope.
What am I looking at?
I’m looking at a great adventure that waits for me now and forever.
– A glimpse into my mind and heart as I head to bed. Good night.
What are you looking at? What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments below.