I'm so often inspired and recalibrated by the lessons I learn at the knee of the self-described pig farmer's wife. She delivers her words with simplicity and humility. My heart is stirred by Ann Voskamp's rich faith and trust in the Savior. Her unique way of expression. And the stark beauty of her photography. All sparked by the powerful touch of the Master Designer of the daily-ness of everyday life.
In this world of constant complaints and endless dissatisfaction, her ability to seek and claim gratitude around every corner, even during seasons of tragedy, is such a wake-up call to me.
And the story of her whirlwind journey to NYC, with all the bells and whistles of celebrity, and then back to the Canadian farm she calls home ... all in a "crazy pair of handknit rainbow-striped socks" tucked inside classic black boots, is so sweet. So grounded.
I have a dear friend of many years whose heart's desire is to fully live in, to appreciate, to revel in the moment. In our conversations, she will call me back from looking too often over my shoulder at the past. Or expending too much energy on venturing too far into the future. Ann's little video reminds me of her today, with it's emphasis on staying fully awake and savoring each simple experience.
This invitation is a gentle, much-needed reminder that "life is not an emergency."
Most of our days are filled with simple routines that will never begin to touch celebrity status. And even though we wrestle and wonder and grieve over the complexities that God allows into our lives, there is always truly much to be thankful for.
Brimming over ~
Linda
"Praise the Lord. Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised"
I have lost too much of the present by living in the future. It's here in this moment where joy is lived out. Thanks for this post!
ReplyDeleteMaybe when we realize all that we're losing because our hearts and minds are somewhere else, we'll return to what's right in front of our noses.
ReplyDelete"This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it!"
Thanks, Christina!
Looking toward the future and worrying about the past robs us of the beauty of today. Thanks for this reminder to live in the moment and to live fully while we're in it.
ReplyDeleteYes, there is so much beauty around us ... oh for the courage and grace to stop and 'smell the roses.' And to develop grateful hearts in the process.
ReplyDeleteThanks for dropping by, Lori!