To look at the world through the eyes of reason provides a consistent framework with which to view everything.
But, I'm learning that sometimes logic fails us when we only see part of the picture.
Often times I feel like this is our world:
I feel like one of those blind men in the picture. In fact, I think a lot of us are like those men.
The reason there is so much disunity is because we all are given a different part of the puzzle to solve.
None of us know the full story.
If we are standing next to the foot of the elephant thinking it's a tree, we will naturally surround ourselves with people who are experiencing the same thing. Even if they are next to a different leg, their perspective will be basically the same.
But what happens when someone next to the leg meets someone sitting on top of the elephant?
What happens when one person is adamant that it's a tree, while the other is sure that it's a fan?
What then?
We tell ourselves it's best to be with people who think like us. But what if the only way to draw together is to realize that we don't have the full picture?
Now, please do not think that I am adopting a relativistic world view as so many hold these days.
There most certainly is absolute truth.
The truth is that it's an elephant.
But only when our blind eyes are open can we recognize that.
Again, we each only have our small piece of the big puzzle.
It is of utmost importance to open our ears to those around us and realize that they each have something to teach us.
We have to learn from each other.
There's a reason James reminds us we should be "quick to listen, slow to speak". (James 1:19)
Everyone needs a voice.
Everyone needs to be heard.
As far as being able to actually see the whole elephant, there is One who can open blind eyes.
Right now is one of those moments when I feel like I have been given a glimpse of the whole picture.
This perspective--the perspective of truth brings freedom.
Jesus promised us, "If you hold to my teaching [and gain My perspective], you are really my disciples. Then you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32)
When we step back and recognize the beauty of the whole, we are able to rest in knowing that it's all gonna be okay. The world is in the palm of Someone's hand much greater than all of us.
It's moments like these I realize why Jesus said [indignantly], "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?" (Luke 12:25)
We worriers are so silly sometimes. (I'm as guilty of this as anyone.)
But I mean for reals! Let's think less about what is going wrong and what could go wrong and take a minute to relax, "smell the roses," and remember:
Life is Beautiful.
