photographed by m. osborne.
the sense of hope in one's crooked or slanted or tired smile is the strongest hope known to the mind of the hopeless. because even in the towns of destitution that occupy the minds of those on the run, hope still slithers its sly self through the trenches of ... nothing. no pressures from time. no fear of lacking. simply hoping ... trusting ... believing that the measures needed will be taken by Someone greater than you. than i. and in the depths of it all, those destitute towns begin to flourish with promising virtue and fruit. aaah, what savory fruit has sprouted from beneath those feet that were aimlessly treading waters of defeat. what joy has sprung from the crux of the valley and its desolate trails, with no hope for today's tail. no need for many words. there's just beauty that speaks volumes higher than the eagles soar. stronger than the lion attacks. more pleasant that your favorite hymn or melody. that kind of beauty is found in the subtleties of the sunshine - when it quietly hides behind gray clouds, leading you to believe that the dim setting will settle and take over. but that subtle smile from the sunshine, that's complexly presented to the world, will surprise you with a hope that lasts longer than thoughts drag on memories from months that no longer exist. and all will gather and bask in the brilliance of its beaming rays and praise the Artist who created such promises and hopes. no mind will be occupied with destitution. instead, all will be occupied with a destination. destination to forever. forever in the presence of the Son.
- consider all creation (people and things),
- think much of others and less of self,
- process internally before speaking in a hurry,
- be tender and warm to your mistakes with full acknowledgment,
- hold fast to the little things,
- love inspiration as your own.
