PERSPECTIVE

          This is not your best life...and that’s okay. It’s gonna get better. The best is yet to come. 
In the meantime, shift your perspective. Try looking at the world in a different way. I think you’ll be amazed at what you might find. 
          Look ahead. We’re living in a crazy time right now, but we don’t have to focus on that. Look to the horizon. The waves will keep crashing and the seagulls won’t stop screeching...so keep your eyes on the horizon. The horizon is unchanging. It’s a daily reminder of God’s constant presence. He can bring us rest and peace in this time. Relax. Look ahead. Keep your eyes on the horizon. 
          Look up. Gaze at the night sky. Let the stars be a reminder of how vast and powerful our God is. And out of all the billions of stars that dot the night sky, he chose to love YOU. God, you chose to love me?! Yes, he sure did. So look up. Look up and remember that HE LOVES YOU. 
          Look around. Take a walk in nature. Find the beautiful things God has planted all around you, and be thankful. Look at the trees and be thankful for your roots. Thank God for your family. Look at the flowers and be thankful for the blooming relationships in your life. You are blessed with friends who love you and care about you. Thank God for enriching your life with beautiful people. Look at the mountains. Remember the hardships you’ve conquered, and remember the spectacular view at the top. Be thankful for this journey we get to embark on. Face the mountain you’re climbing right now. You’ve got this. Stay hopeful...the view at the top will be worth it. Oh, so worth it. 
          Be hopeful. Let yourself be inspired. Listen to the uplifting voices in your life. Live lightly. It’s okay to make mistakes. You are not defined by your past or your present. God is the only one who has the right to define you...and he loves you and thinks the world of you. Be thankful for what he's done in your life. If you’re grateful for someone, tell them. They need that encouragement right now. 
​          But most of all, keep your eyes on Jesus. Look ahead, look up, and look around. God is EVERYWHERE. Remember that he has a plan for your life. There are better days up ahead. Life isn’t perfect...and that’s okay! Give yourself permission to feel differently than usual right now. This is a strange time, but it won’t last forever. It’s gonna get better. I’m sure of it.