Reach for the crevice

We are at critical phases of three things we’ve never done before - growing jalepeños on a terrace, finding my full time work outside of my home country, and raising a baby.  In each of the three there is a massive amount of power outside of our hands.

In our best moments, we let what we cannot reach alone.  We scan the options we have to move forward, choose and evaluate at least one, and reach, grip, pull.  It is a lot like the movements I use for the rockfaces in my tougher hikes. Identify handholds within reach, test the option that seems best, and (if it feels steady) use the crevice to gain elevation.

Many times in life, I obsess over the things beyond me.  I look down the steep trail and imagine the pain of falling.  I stare at the clouds and fear a thunderstorm.  I long for the handholds that are clearly out of reach and consider leaping towards them.  Better to climb in pairs - I see this everyday as Jeni and I guide each others’ movements upward.

I must embrace wisdom and perseverance.  Although my momentary choices are often left to me, I know the direction God wants me to move.  I know my plants and my family count on me to participate in their lives. And though I would give up on the plants for an easy lifestyle, I’ll never give up on my family.

We are reaching, gripping, pulling crevice after crevice and the results are starting to come.  The plants have budded, and Jeni’s amazing body has nearly finished preparing the baby.  Our finances our healthy from the work we did this school year, and I had two near misses for the full time job that will allow us a lifestyle pivot. The climb is slow, but so very worthwhile.