This morning I saw a bluejay hopping through the bushes. It was cold and the wind was biting against my skin. How do these birds survive such cold winters? I find winter long and difficult even in my heated, comfortable house. I don't have to go scrounge for food when all is dead and covered by snow. And yet, I'm sure the bluejay doesn't struggle with stress or anxiety the way I do. There is certainly something to be said for fulfilling your God-given purpose. The bluejay is doing exactly what God created it to do. Just seeing its bright blue standing out against the drab post-winter background brought joy to me as I hurried home, covering my face against the wind. I'm not saying we should all just leave the comforts we have come to rely on, and live outside like the bluejay. I believe that God gave us the ability to create what we need to live comfortably in this climate. But, how often do I miss the reality that is all around me because I am driving somewhere plastic in my plastic car, eating plastic food, thinking about plastic things. My challenge is to live a real life - an authentic life - in this plastic world. Real life isn't as exciting, on the surface, as TV or even books, but it is fulfilling and deep.
Thank you, bluejay, for the much-needed lesson!
