breathless moments: November 2009

I love all my senses. As a photographer, however, I especially love sight. I love the colors, and taking pictures of colors, or patterns & textures. I love seeing God's Creation- seeing a smiling face, or reading a book. This past week has been a reminder of what an amazing gift sight is- a few weeks ago, my eyes started acting up, hurting a little, and very bloodshot. I finally had time to visit the optometrist, who spoke the dread words: eye infection. For the past week, I haven't been able to wear my contacts, depending solely on some pretty scratched up glasses to get me through several photoshoots, and just life in general. I had a few accidents [ crashing into rail on rollerblades being just one], but basically have managed to make it through the week unscathed. Hooray! Tomorrow morning I go back, to hear whether or not I may wear my contacts again.

This week has been more than just a reminder to keep my eyes safe- it has given me new trust in the Lord. I always thought that if I lost my sight, or most of my sight, I couldn't survive. I couldn't handle being without contacts, or seeing with perfect vision. But a few times this week I was unable to wear my glasses, experiencing life in a blur. Though not the most fun [its rather embarrassing confusing a dog for a child], I now know that Phil. 4:13 applies to senses [and the lack thereof]: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

I know this is a very simple post: but really, how often have you contemplated what life would be like without one of your senses? Without sight? Or smell? Taste? The ability to feel? Without hearing a friend's voice? How would you deal with this? Turn towards trusting God more, or becoming angry and frustrated?

I am grateful, very very grateful, for being able to see. I am even more grateful for the God who gave me sight, and loves me- whether or not I can see 20/20.

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus- Phil. 3:8

Live with joy in every circumstance! - Habakkuk 3:18-19