by Estey Masten
Opportunities for growth constantly present themselves to each one of us. When I consider and make life choices, I direct my thought towards God and remind myself that no matter what decision is made, God always blesses me. This open perspective takes the stress out of every decision, and leaves my thought open to God’s direction.
Mrs. Eddy, the founder of the Christian Science Church, wrote this about opportunities and God’s love, “Willingness to become as a little child and leave the old for the new renders though receptive of the advanced idea.” This “advanced idea,” as I understand it, signifies an elevation of thought. When we are receptive to the advanced idea, we are so enveloped in God’s love that we are at peace. There is no room for sadness, worry, or anger when one’s thought is already filled with God’s love.
When I think of becoming like a little child and being willing to leave the old for the new, I think of my little brother, Jimmy. When our family moved six years ago, Jimmy was only three years old. He was so excited to explore his new home and the city surrounding it. Jimmy sat in his car seat in the U-Haul, ate pretzels, watched the countryside go by, and smiled the whole ten-hour drive.
When we arrived at our new house, he sprung out of the car, bounded up the steps, and shouted, “We’re home!” The rest of our family quickly learned to follow at my brother’s example as we adjusted to our new surroundings. This sense of pure gratitude and trust in God’s plan is what Jimmy exemplified that day. It seems to me that this is what Mrs. Eddy referred to when she wrote about “willingness to become as a little child.”
The willingness to jump into each new experience is spiritually supported. God, all-inclusive Love, constantly encourages and inspires us to jump joyfully into every new experience and shout, “We’re home!” We are always home because we’re always held in God’s love.
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Wow, this is great story — it’s cool to picture your little brother getting excited about his new home!
Thanks Estey,
This is just what I needed to hear. What a great way to look at new experiences–or even new moments!
Joy is such a wonderful thing when expressed around those in doubt. I have a friend that loathes travel because it’s not her pillow, it’s not her bed, it’s not her car.. Looking at these situations as opportunities to grow, explore and challenge ourselves is such a delightful way to live though. Each experience is meant for us, it’s our job to rise and meet the challenge!
Not always easy to embrace change…how do you manage when the change isn’t as pleasant as a move????
Thanks, Estey. This is so helpful. This is a really, really good way of looking at change. I want to be more receptive to this way of looking at change.