Lighthouse

What light are you shining? Is it a short-fused spark where hedonism flints against boredom, or a careful, steady flame that burns constantly through all weathers?

Consider what would happen if that light went out.

To suffer a gale against your flame is to burn vulnerably amidst the turbulent elements between you and your horizon. In this respect, suffering serves to pull focus on what you are trying—and unable—to grasp. Out of arm's reach, the lack of grip can make the desire for that vision more acute, or it pares everything back until only simple, straightforward, life-giving priorities exist.

Here is precisely the moment where your smouldering wick starts to ignite again, when you realise what you are living for and choose to stand your ground. When you do this, you not only shine in the face of your own enemy, you give light to other lost vessels whether you know it or not.

Now consider again – what must you do to make your light burn brighter?

Find your lighthouse, and take your position.

[Victor Frankl is an authoritative voice on the topic of meaning in suffering. In his current series of posts, Donald Miller offers a very accessible and sensitive introduction to Frankl's writing. Another one for the reading list!]




{Today's Sountrack: M.Ward - Hold Time}