One year ago, I had just finished traveling to five countries, I was living in a new state, spending time with strangers who soon became close friends, and discovering what it meant to be me. These memories have become sweet to me, nostalgia has set in, and my longing for what was has clouded these past experiences with unrealistic memories. Now that is NOT to say I shouldn’t cherish these memories, not in the slightest. I mean only to say that as time passes, the danger of nostalgia increases as we often glorify moments forgetting the difficulty within sweet memories.
For example, when I remember my summer in Georgia, my mind goes to star gazing on the beach with sweet friends … not trying to figure out how to share a washing machine with 80 people. As I’ve reflected on the beauty of my nostalgia for last summer, I have realized I long for those memories not because they were perfect, but rather because of the intentionality and love I was surrounded by. The experiences are special to me because of the people I lived alongside in that present moment.
Though the past is beautiful, and I love the nostalgia certain songs, foods, or memories bring, I am coming to realize living in the past prevents the Lord from working in our present. It is in the present joys, struggles, and encounters that we find Jesus. So although the present may not be as externally glorious or filled with sweet memories yet, I know that in entering into each day as the laity (wherever that may be today) with love, intentionality, and joy, I will one day long for these present joys with the same nostalgia.
But we cannot make new memories, experience new joys, and encounter Christ fully if we do not live in the present moment. So, if you are struggling like me to enter into the present moment, take a second to enjoy the people around you. Stop for a moment and ask the Lord what he may be looking to teach you in these moments. It is in the present that we see the Lord, learn to love His gifts, and begin to live and love like Him.
It is good that you are here where you are. God is in control. All will be well, give yourself some time.
All my love and prayers,
Monica +JMJ+