I delayed writing this month’s newsletter because I was having trouble focusing. The photo above that I captured last week spoke to me in so many ways that I knew I wanted to write about it, but each time I tried, I went in a different direction and couldn’t get the words out.
It was early morning, and I was out for a walk with my two furry friends. A light snow had fallen during the night and coated the earth with a glistening white, a serene blank canvas waiting for an inspired artist to make a mark. I didn’t go far before I saw that mark. Small animal prints painted the path before me.
As I looked down at the tracks in the snow, I remembered how, when my sons were young, we would often search for animal prints. It was like a game to try to figure out which animal had left its mark based on the size, shape, and pattern of the tracks left behind. This got me thinking about the tracks we leave behind, whether intentionally or unintentionally. What imprint am I making?
In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to see someone’s tracks. It’s difficult to go anywhere without being recorded. A simple search online can give you an impression of someone in just a few seconds. People may seek us out and study our tracks. That could be a good thing, or it could be a bad thing.
The critters in the driveway didn’t purposely leave their mark. In fact, I suspect it may be to their detriment to leave their tracks and scent behind, since these present an opportunity for predators. The same can be true for us.
Sometimes we mess up. We say things we shouldn’t, or do things we regret. We falter and stumble. People may mock us for our failures because they can’t see the light at the end of our path. They can’t see into our hearts. All they can see are the tracks we’ve left and the places where we’ve failed.
Sometimes, even when we’re confident in the direction of our steps, people may still judge us. They may imply we’re not doing enough or not doing what we “should” do. However, they haven’t walked in our shoes. They’re walking a different path and leaving their own unique tracks behind.
My encouragement to you this month is to be mindful of the steps you take, stay true to your calling, and don’t let minor missteps prevent you from moving forward.
