Through My Eyes

Today I am amazed at the number of pictures we take in any given season- yet they are safely stored in the ‘cloud’ somewhere. We hardly ever go back to look at them. We rarely ever print them. Question of the day – ‘ Where is the cloud?’

I treasure my collection of printed pictures from way back when. Old tattered albums, some have had to be replaced. My sons are tickled, looking back at their childhood pictures. My high school friends from 40 plus years ago wonder where I find some of the pictures I have. I have chosen to guard these precious memories with a strong ‘no’ from time to time. You may not remove them from my home.

These magnificent pieces of art have done well to capture some special moments in time. They are held still and do wonders to connect the past and the present. They tell stories of what was and help us recreate slides of unforgettable memories. In times when we desire to reminisce, one of these priceless gems can take us on a well-needed journey through time. They can act as amazing passports to places we no longer get to visit. I am eternally grateful for these memories.

When we no longer get to touch or hug, pictures connect our hearts. Life comes with goodbyes. Sometimes all we have left in the tangible are the comfort of pictures. They often bring to mind the ‘better days’ – the days when we had each other. Sometimes when sickness ravages the physical, we go back to pictures to remind us of what was. They provide a safe place to escape some of life’s harsh realities. The good, bad, and the in-between are there for our viewing pleasure. Life’s twists and turns are often captured in real time. When the journey we are given ends, we have a wonderful legacy to pass on to those who may not have been there in our ‘now’. Our cameras also bear witness of the lasting reminders of God’s hand in the details of our lives. On some dark days, they have been my go-to therapy. For this and more – I value my collection.

“I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your miracles of long ago. I will consider all Your works and meditate on all Your mighty deeds.” [Psalm 77:11-12]