Moments to treasure.

Have you ever tied a bandana over your eyes and tried to walk? Dangerous, as I recall. I can remember having a teacher who used this game to help us understand the daily struggles of a blind person. It was effective, especially when we bumped into things and felt a general sense of helplessness. It was comforting to have someone with unimpeded sight come alongside us and guide our steps. This morning I opened my Instagram account and saw this.

The post was from one year ago and it was from our daughter. The memories and a few tears swirled through and out of my eyes as I read the post and remembered that day.

Kayt and I occasionally run together and the encouragement we offer each other is so sweet. If I am tired, Kayt holds pace and boosts me. If Kayt is struggling than I reciprocate the affirmations. On this particular day, we decided to run and I think I remember looking at the brooding sky and maybe even mentioned something about, "Looks like a bad storm might hit." We decided to go run anyway. We're crazy that way.

It doesn't take a scientist to figure out what happened on our run. The clouds opened up and a torrential downpour ensued. No worries! We're 'Tough Mudder' strong and we'll persevere. WHOA! Even warriors have flaws. It wasn't long before Kayt realized the rain was threatening to wash the contacts out of her eyes. Hmm, we could turn around and go back to the truck. Nah!

What happened next cannot be scripted. Kayt reached out grasped my arm, shut her eyes, and held pace with me. What an incredible moment!! I slowed my pace, Kayt saved her contacts, the run was a success, and we giggled about it later. Most sane folks had stayed in their cars or beat it back to them. A few diehards joined us on the trail and enjoyed the moist chaos.

Life is sometimes like a run on the rail trail in the midst of a cloudburst. Struggling to move forward, unsure which direction we're going, and in danger of losing something valuable, pushes us to choose. We can choose to quit and be safely comfortable or we choose to surge forward and trust. That day was a lesson in discipline and trust. Both Kayt and I learned a great deal about ourselves and each other. When things don't go as planned, always have contingency plans. Live boldly and grow stronger!

If today seems dark and you are unsure of your next faithful step, reach out and grasp the arm of God. Don't be surprised to find God's arm already reaching out for you. It's who He is. He loves and seeks communion with His creation. He guides, encourages, and strengthens us when we falter.

"So do not fear, for I am with you;do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help

you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)​