Casting Nets
There is wonder to behold in every situation

I love those words by Elizabeth Browning:

"Earths crammed with heaven and every common bush afire with God, but only he who sees takes off his shoes; the rest sit round and pick blackberries."

I interpret this to mean, in part, that life is filled with surprises which are often missed by our preoccupation with things that may be trivial. One person may see a gorgeous sunset and be moved to feel awe; another may swear at the sun because it blinds his vision as he drives west near sunset.

Another phrase comes to mind: "Two men sit in prison bars. One sees mud, the other stars." Sometimes we find no joy because we are looking for the wrong things. Picture that scene described by Browning - people sitting around and picking blackberries ... while amazing things are happening all around them.

When Christopher Columbus set off on his first journey, no doubt there were those who were happy as they thought of the new information that would be discovered, while others saw only the dangers of the ships falling off the edge of the sea.

When the latest space shuttle roared into space, many were filled with awe and admiration for the skills and achievements of the scientific community, while others thought only of the cost in terms of dollars for making the historic trip. Some may look at a newborn baby and think of all the advantages that will be available - others may think only of the difficulties the child will face as he/she grows.

There will always be those who recognize "Earths crammed with heaven and every common bush afire with God," ... while others simply "sit round and pick blackberries."