What do I do? Where do I turn? Many times in life we pray for the answers to these questions when faced with a major crisis. In a moment of despair, we find ourselves at a loss for direction and reach out to anyone willing to help us. But rather than from out, the answers usually come from within.
I like to refer to these as our Scarlett O'Hara moments. Recalling the scene where Scarlett, broken and exhausted from fleeing Atlanta, suffering from the shock of finding her mother dead, the family plantation fleeced and her father in a state of dementia, attempts to find nourishment from the garden where she wretches over a forgotten radish. At that 'last straw' moment she vows to "never go hungry again", to take care of her family and to not be beaten down. She draws on her inner strength. And her life changes forever.
Though this fictional catharsis was created in the mind of Margaret Mitchell, it was, no doubt, drawn from personal experience. The enlightenment that comes from these moments sets us in a new direction of growth and gives us a renewed spirit of strength. Suddenly we know what we have to do. In time, we become a better person because of this experience.
It's these moments that remind me of the presence of God in my life. Guiding my soul when my mind and body are at an impasse. Preparing me to face the road ahead with a stronger spirit. Opening a door when I find another has closed.
These defining events are the ones that will be our times to lead the journey by example. To show God that we are listening. To re-enforce our faith. The road to enlightenment and peace is a journey of learning, growing and teaching. Those who travel with blinders on will miss the lessons and find themselves walking in circles and getting nowhere. A well nourished spirit will prove to be a worthy guide.
