The Tree.

If the heart is the root,

then actions are the branches

and words are the leaves.

One of my pet peeves has always been when people say "well, that's just the way I am" in regard to a negative quality they portray.  I think I feel that it's not a good enough excuse.  So usually the first thing I do is try to change it about them...or find a way to help them see what a problem it is.  When they don't care to change it, it drives me crazy and continues to gnaw at me. 

Then God told me something that completely contradicts what I've been doing all this time:  I dont have to love them FOR it, I have to love them in spite of it.  Perhaps the lesson through all this is to show me how to love those who make it hard.  If everyone morphed into the way I wanted them, it would be altered love.  I know there are many things God wishes I would change about my lifestyle and attitude, yet He loves me in spite of it.  And the irony is that my tendency to find flaws in others only reveals the very flaw in myself.

Our hearts are the center of who we are- but they are only revealed to others through actions & words.  That's why I have the compelling feeling that if I work on getting my heart matter strong and rooted, from it will bloom kind words, a gentle spirit, & the desire to extend a loving hand to those who need it.

*I took these shots to try to challenge perspective and think "outside the box".  This week I'll be out of town doing some [human] shoots and will be back to post photos.  Sorry for my absense, this poor blog is starving for words!

Comments

[Stacy]

One thing that helps me when I'm dealing with this is remembering that people say that the things you despise in others are probably qualities that you actually possess. So, seeing negative things in others helps me to ask "God, is that something you're wanting to work out in me?!" I'm not always good about this, but it's a more positive way to try and live!

[cassandra m]

Love these shots. Great job thinking outside the box. very nice. And great post...you words always inspire.

[The Beach Barn ~ Aimee Taylor]

I wanted to stop by to say "Hi" & introduce myself. I've followed your Blog for a while now and have never popped by to say hi. I just love your photos & thoughts. Truthfully, I don't know how I stumbled upon your blog, but I'm glad I did. : ) I have a friend who is just starting his photography business - I passed your Blog site on to him for some inspiration.

Have a good one. : )

Keep Smiling,
Aimee

[elizabeth]

This is such a great post..