“No bought potpourri is so pleasant as that made from ones own garden, for the petals of the flowers one has gathered at home hold the sunshine and memories of summer, and of past summers only the sunny days should be remembered.” ~ Eleanor Sinclair-Rhode
We are in the “lazy, hazy days of summer”. The temps have been high, the humidity has been on the rise, mosquitoes are picnicking on us, and, yet, all is right with the world. Summer brings about its own sets of memories: vacations, beach trips, baseball games and the like give individuals and families time to relax from the rapid pace of the rest of the year.
My memories of childhood, by and large, center around the summer. Family vacations were the highlight of the summer. We would often go to Arkansas and fish along lakes and rivers. Those days and nights were memorable. We would become so hot while fishing and dad would tell us to “jump in the lake” which was exactly what we did. Out of the boat, into the lake, and return to the boat refreshed. Those days were filled with happy memories and they come back quite often.
There are many things that we choose to remember in our lives and there are things that we also choose to forget. That is probably wise. Remembering the things that made us happy gives us the encouragement that we need to look ahead. Forgetting the things that were sad or hurtful also helps us by giving us the freedom to let go of the past which can do nothing but mire us down.
I often wonder about Jesus’ early years. What memories did He enjoy bringing to mind and what memories did He want to set aside? He so often encouraged His followers to look ahead and to leave the things that harmed them in the past. That good advice back then is still good advice today.
We are in the days of summer when we have a chance to “shift gears” and reflect upon the year past. Make a point to recount the good, happy things. Give thanks to the people who were an important part of those times. Do your best to let go of the things of the past that might not have been helpful. Make a fresh start this summer, calling to mind the good people and things that have been a part of your life.
FAITH ACTION: If you have not done so already, make a plan to spend time in rest and relaxation this summer, so as to reflect upon your blessings.