It’s Patriots Day in Massachusetts. It’s a day more noted for the Boston Marathon than the farmers at Concord Bridge. Over a half million people will watch either from roadsides or their televisions as 26,000 plus runners will challenge themselves to complete a lifelong goal. For most it will be the pride of finishing but for others it will be life changing. Young people from the Kenya highlands will run not to just finish but to win. Since 1988 20 of the 25 first-place men have been from Kenya. Winning transforms their lives and the lives of their families as they return home as heroes.
The fulfillment of a lifelong dream is a heady experience. One does not know if one should celebrate or mourn. After the ecstasy of accomplishment comes the thought, “What do I do with the rest of my life?” The brevity of life rarely allows us time to start over with a new dream. There are a few fortunate individuals who wear many crowns but for most it is a singular experience. This is what makes God’s gift to us so remarkable. There will be ample time to achieve over and over again; not in the same field but in multiple fields.
I once knew someone who was convinced the moment they are in heaven they will be instantly gifted in any desired area. How horribly boring that would be! Challenges to grow are the spice of life. To learn, to practice, to err, to finally do is what eternity is all about. If not, it would be one boring hell. I have so many friends who intrigue me because of their gifts. I can only imagine how much more accomplished they will be when time becomes meaningless
Written by Roger Bothwell on April 15, 2013
Spring of Life, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org