The Seven Wonders of the World

Sometimes in the ordinary is hidden the extraordinary.  In the simple act of running, my passion, I hearken back to when I was a kid and running wasn't done for exercise, but just for fun, for play, for joy.  Running is so simple, so pure, so honest.  What a shame running is ruined for many by high school coaches and such that use it as punishment.  But, I digress...

How many of us have surrendered in some way to the existence that the world may label as "normal"?  Something like rise, shower, commute, work, commute, dinner, TV, and bed only to repeat, over and over and over again? 
 
Have even our acts of service become a whirlwind of activity devoid of the Love from which (whom, actually) they should flow?

When was the last time you truly "played"?  Being a grandfather of 3 boys has helped me to listen to my heart in new ways, to live and (at least try) to exuberantly love.


Many of us had to "grow up" to protect ourselves from the onslaught of the evils of this world. Others were taught to put on an outer self of respectability, and with that came a loss of joy.  Some of that is necessary and to a degree it can be good, right, even noble.  However, what if it is in lieu of living life as it is intended?  Humor me and imagine yourself skipping across the finish line of a local race, with arms held high in celebration.  Does it not tap into a wellspring of emotion.  How about standing on top of a mountain?  Or gazing into the eyes of child blessed by your gift of time?

Initially, I imagine the title of this post inspired images of architectural achievement or wonders of nature.  However, I'd like to offer you a new list of The Sever Wonders of the World:

• To Touch
• To Taste
• To See
• To Hear
• To Feel
• To Laugh
• To Love

With my apologies to the original author of this list (I found this in an old journal and don't remember its source) I invite, no encourage, even implore, you to seek the extraordinary by embracing the ordinary anew.  For me, I find each of these in running, and that, I believe, makes me a better husband, father, son, employee and employer, friend...

What about you?

"It is by the heart that God is known, and not by reason"  Oswald Chambers

"I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly"  Jesus (John 10:10)

Press on friends (Phil 3:14)