Hidden Coves

Presence and absence is something that I’ve always found a conceptual curiosity. As human beings we are forgetful of the spiritual, viewing it with suspicion or disbelief – even mislabelling it, yet there is a sense of right and wrong, good triumphing over evil. Sometimes I find myself wondering about humanity. Every passing year I feel an increasing sense of the human condition, yet an ever deepening despair at the destruction of our world.

Some people experience desperation about aging that they try to fight. Perhaps it is fate to be ever conscious for past longings.   The real problems are of the heart. Life suddenly throws up complications, heartbreak, illness, death and we are reminded of our own finite life. People die at all times and in all ways and without notice. There are those that live with trauma and illness and grief and mental health problems. We are created beings, made in the image of God. God is love therefore we are love. If we have love in our hearts for another, even in some miniscule shape or form, we have known and seen the love of God. If you can look at a person with love, forgiveness, patience or many other good and virtuous traits then you have a piece of Gods love in your heart.

What of evil? Yes, those actions done outside of love are not of God. How can we be expected to tolerate suffering at the hands of evil? We are not. It is a chaotic mess of the human existence, which God does not promise a peaceful and painless life. He has however offered himself to us through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross – the servant king, the one to bring hope, love and strength in all circumstances. He is risen afterall.

I could never have imagined that this life is what I have ended up being called to and yet I cannot regret it. I regret not being better informed of this world, but I cannot regret something which God has brought so much beauty and goodness from. How can I be angry at God when life has been so wonderful? How can I be angry at those I love when I have known so much love and care? Pain and suffering is inevitable. I live as honestly and loyally as I can. Lament is of utmost importance.

Here in the ramblings I look at the ‘Hidden Coves’ and remember that even where there is a storm raging outside or above me, there is somewhere safe for even the smallest of creatures to shelter. Once the storm passes there as I look out upon the sea I will see the sun setting and in the beauty I will know the peace and joy and hope still in the air that lies beyond the hidden coves of my heart.