The Lighthouse

It does not move.

It casts light to the darkness.

It points the way.

One lighthouse guides many ships.

There was a season in my life when I was enamored with lighthouses.

I planned vacations in areas where I could explore them, savoring the experience.

I collected numerous lighthouse mementos, my favorite a large framed photo of a lighthouse receiving a crashing wave with a man standing in the doorway by Jean Guichard.

This piece has accompanied my family on our five moves beginning with my move from New Mexico to Austin in 2010.

It now hangs beautifully in my guest room.

I was strongly reminded this week of this companion photo, it’s powerful symbolism guiding my journey in life now, as it did over 20 years ago.

The “light” is calling me back.

Back to letting go of trying to rescue, to calm the waters, clear the way, perform or live up to unrealistic expectations.

Back to standing in the midst of a storm, watching, unmoved.

Back to fully embracing my identity to be a “light” to others who may need hope and guidance.

This week, the lighthouse gave me hope and guidance.

I am grateful for these recurring symbols in life to ground me, anchor me on a Rock.

When I am grounded, I can receive.

When I can receive, joy, peace, love and fulfillment find their way to my heart and soul.

And consequently flow freely into the hearts of others.

The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is

my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.

Psalms 18:2