There's no question that I enjoy travel...the opportunities to see new places and meet new people...priceless experiences. Sometimes, I dread the process of getting to the destination though. Long layovers and hours spent in a confined space are a harsh contrast to the beautiful scenery of the destination itself. Yet, other times I actually quite enjoy the "getting there" for the simple fact that it is an excuse to unplug for even just a few hours to think, read, and write.
This past weekend I made a quick coast to coast trip, traveling to Sacramento to - as one of my drivers put it - do some "recon" work...otherwise known as checking out the 2016 site for our Association of Leadership Educators conference. And, as the semester is coming to a close, I welcomed the "getting there" time for some internal processing and reflection. After flight #1, my 3 hour layover at LAX lent itself to some writing time...the result is below. A friend mentioned that I may need some more travel on my schedule if this comes out of my "getting there" time...I'm just thankful for such opportunities and down time when He stirs my heart to write. I pray these words may bless and encourage you.
Layers of Grace
by Natalie Coers
I look in the mirror and what do I see?
I see the person I think I should be.
Strong and confident in who I am becoming,
Yet, doubt creeps in to insecurities looming.
With a critical eye, I prod into the depths of my faults;
Then a gentle whisper brings me to a halt.
He whispers with love that dispels my fears;
Speaking truth to my heart, He draws me near.
Those faults I try to cover are beautiful scars to Thee,
Marks of growth as I become who He desires me to be.
Each doubting moment, He layers upon His grace,
Assuring me I only need to follow at His pace.
Lord, take captive my thoughts and renew my mind,
May I walk in wisdom and faith, in You alone my purpose I find.
