Experience

     In his essay "Experience," Emerson spoke of the fact that some ordinary days seem uneventful, lacking any particular significance. However, Emerson said, a long view sometimes reveals that cumulative and significant things have been happening in those ordinary days. Ordinary days sometimes contribute to something of lasting meaning. Emerson said "The years teach much which the days never know." Emerson believed that a part of the art of aging well is living each day with integrity and with the will to hallow each day. Could there be a divine reality at work in the events of a single day, bringing significance out of what seem to be such ordinary events?
     As I watched the events of 2011, which day by day looked like little steps in the lives of my loved ones lead to such huge victories, I am encouraged and hopeful. Breakthrough after breakthrough in their personal relationships and in their spiritual lives have brought a transformation and a peace even in the midst of some storms. God's delays are definitely not his denials. It reminds me of a sign I saw at a church that said, "Whenever there is a gap between what I expect and what I experience I will fill it with trust. Our priest said, "The battle is our senses vs. the spiritual truth."  We must let the light within radiate and if we have on a suit of armor then we must invite God's chisel of mercy to crack it. "The new year comes with the new light of God's kingdom. Let it shine! His grace is enough to fill the gaps.  May we witness the divine reality in each of the ordinary events of 2012. This year may you be resolute in the pursuit of something significantly life changing and may you see your amazing victories hidden in your daily routine!