I was asked to write my opinion on the importance of images for Jeannette Paladino @Write, Speak, Sell. That opinion is now published on her site. You might want to check it out. 🙂
When I was composing my thoughts, “Footprints In the Sand” was something that came to mind. For me, images are what helps this prayer or prose come to life.
When you think of your life’s journey, do you wonder what kind of mark you’ll leave. Will it be for good or ill? Will we be remembered in a way that warms the hearts of others? Will there be guidance or help along the way? I believe there is an answer to all our questions if we just take a little time to quiet our minds and listen. When we do, we’ll hear the whispered messages, giving us the much-desired enlightenment we so often ask for in our prayers.
When I reach a point where I feel lost, and all is for not, I turn to one of my favorite prose.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Footprints in the Sand
By
Mary Stevenson.
One night I had a dream…
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with God
and across the sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand,
one belonged to me, the other belonged to God.
When the last scene of my life flashed before us,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that at certain times along the path of life
there was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest
and saddest times of my life.
This really bothered me, and I questioned God about it.
“God, you said that once I decided to follow You,
You would walk with me all the way,
but I noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life
there is only one set of footprints in the sand.
I don’t understand why in times I needed You most You would leave me.”
God replied,”My precious, precious child, I love you
and would never leave you during your times of trials and suffering.
When you see only one set of footprints in the sand,
it was then that I was carrying you.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
This prayer or prose never fails to quiet my mind just enough, giving me a sense of much-needed peace. When I’m quiet I hear His whispers, and I know I’m not alone. Even though I know this isn’t so much about leaving our mark on the world, it still brings that thought to mind when I read this prayer.
It’s never easy to now if we’re on the right path. It’s even harder to quiet our minds to hear the much-needed whispers of advice. I say to all who wish for it. Quiet your mind in whatever manner works for you. You’ll be amazed the peace it will bring, and the revelations that will come forth.
What kind of footprints do you desire to make in your life? Do you have a favorite prose or quote? What is it that makes that prose or quote special for you?
Life’s journey continues…
If you enjoyed “Footprints In The Sand,” check out Was That Really Today?, Childhood Perception, and Peanut Butter Life.