A Lenten personal reflection on relationships and transformation based on Isaiah 43.16-21
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Relationships. The foundation of our freedom to be who we are created to be.
This truth I have learned and continue to learn. (This latter mindfulness, doubtless, fortified by a coronavirus-induced, now, yearlong period of apartness and absence one from another.) I have a greater sense of who I am through my various relationships.
In my relationships, I am called to be truthful about myself. How I strive to be authentic in my living. How far short I often fall. How I try again and again.
In my relationships, I am confirmed by praise honestly bestowed and confronted by criticism earnestly given.
In my relationships, I am summoned to stand outside of myself. My self. That sometimes small container, sometimes prison in which I seek to hide, holding life at my arm’s length, continuing my chameleonic charade, dancing across life’s stage, trying to make a good impression, and taking few risks of being known.
In my relationships, I am challenged to be and to become the person who God created and redeemed. Less afraid. Less guarded. Less manipulative. Less pretentious. More honest. More present. More responsible. More response-able to others.
More to come…
© 2021 PRA
occasional observations of mind and heart, soul and spirit 
As always Paul, it is a joy to read your musings and thoughts. You express yourself and your internal reflections in an inspiring and cogent way. I don’t know if I can wish you a “happy Lent” but I do wish you love and peace today and every day.
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Ah, my dearest Ellen, wishing one another a “happy Lent” would be a bit odd given Lent’s innate penitential spirit. However, bidding “love and peace today and every day”, yes, amen! Love you, always and in all ways, Paul
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