The only thing I knew to do was to put my focus on my blessings and not to dwell on the adversity that I was facing. I remember that day looking out the window and knowing that I wanted to memorize how I was feeling. It was one of the most difficult days of my life. I told myself that if I could get through this, I would never take another day for granted again. The fear was overwhelming.
I glanced at the books sitting on the mantle. I had arranged the vignette on a more carefree day. I grabbed my camera and I snapped the photo.
Today, just looking at this image strengthens my faith, because that adversity is behind me now. I have this photo in a frame, sitting on my desk. When I look at this image, the feelings of fear that I faced that day come rushing back. I am thankful that I memorized the life lesson, a reminder never to take today for granted.
Is there a photograph that memorized a life lesson for you? Do you keep it nearby to reflect on it's wisdom?
11 comments:
Oh Karen what a heart felt post. I love that this reminds you daily of your blessings. I read something the other day that said, "before you put one foot in the floor, say THANK YOU, this will set your day on the right foot."
I do have several photos that remind me of a poignant moment, and cherish them. Some times they are too powerful.
Hugs!
Karen, I love your post. I do have one photo that is a reminder for me but it is opposite of your story. My photo is of my first nephew at 18 months old, being held by his father. Both of them are wearing suits and ties. I have always loved the photo but it gained new meaning when that same sweet boy was in his teens, struggling with addiction. I would look at that photo and remember that that same loving boy was inside this struggling teen body. He is now 25, married and sober. That picture now reminds me to never give up. To always have faith and hope.
Beautiful photo and beautiful post, Karen. We all have such life lessons to learn. The pity is that we're so bad at it! Photography does indeed serve as a vital reminder to us about what's important in life. I posted about this on my personal blog a couple of days ago: Camper (Hat tip to Tammy Lee Bradley at Shutter Sisters for the quote.)
No. I have never even thought of doing such a thing, though I will now. I do appreciate the sense you describe of being at a low place and now you look back and see it behind you. We know, being human and still here on this earth, that something will come up again. How wonderful to remember that God has always brought us through and that He will continue to do so as we yield to Him.
Very powerful post. Thank you, Karen, for sharing.
Beautiful post Karen, I have a picture of yours that you had sent me when I had won your giveaway of the hibiscus that says believe on it. I love it and it is the first thing I see when I go into the Computer room every morning. The other picture I have is when I turned 40. the year I came down with my illness, I had been so sick I just remember that I wanted everyone to go home. Days have gotten so better since that. I decided to never miss an opportunity again no matter how bad my days were. I am so much better than then that I do make the most out of every day, and appreciate the simplest things....That picture reminds me that there are always great days ahead....sorry to be so long winded. love your photo. hugs.
Thank you for sharing this special photo with us Karen. Life is certainly filled with many ups and downs and no one is able to escape some form of difficulty or heartache throughout it. Glad to hear that with your beautiful photo above you are reminded that a difficult time is behind you, and you got through it.
xo's to you friend...
What a beautiful photo to remind you that yes, you did make it thru the bad times, they are behind you and that you cherish your days. Life continues to be filled with the good and the bad, but to remember that there are far more good than bad is a blessing. Your thoughtful image is just such a reminder of your many blessings. God bless and always stay strong.
Karen, what a wonderful post! Beautiful vignette and perfect processing. If we could all only remember to focus on our blessings and what a wonderful idea to have a photo to remind you.
I definitely have taken photos to clear my mind and to get my head out of a stuck place The total concentration it takes doesn't allow me to think about anything else. But I don't think it would have occurred to me to take a photo in the midst of a day like the one you describe. If I had, I probably would have tossed it our with the bad day when all was resolved.
How smart that you kept it as a sign of victory instead of a reminder of loss. You took it to a whole other level of gratitude, and taught me a lesson. Thank you.
And I'm so glad that you overcame whatever had you in it's grip!
Such a touching story behind your picture! Pictures have such power, don't they! I remember seeing a picture of my mom about 6 months after she passed and the tears it brought. Every picture tells a story!
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