Scouts’ motto: Be Prepared.
This weekend, snow crept slowly over the mountain ridges filling the valley below, cocooning us in a soft, white lullaby. At risk of being lulled by nature’s beauty, I thought about Lady Wisdom and asked myself, “Am I prepared?”
Yes, surely I had set the table, decanted the wine and was ready to serve my guests, our neighbors, when they arrived as long as the flickering power held, which it did until the dessert course. No hot coffee, but fresh berries with cream and two lanterns that sat ready to light our way. Keith started fires in both woodstoves, which warmed us through the night and into the morning when power was restored. A back-up generator, once repaired, will ease our future fulfillment of the Scouts’ motto, at least in terms of physical needs. What else do we need to be prepared?
In Stumbling on Happiness, Daniel Gilbert wrote, “The human being is the only animal that thinks about the future.” But we are surprisingly poor predictors and planners, Gilbert stated, because we think the future will be very much like the present. We certainly have a great deal of data to tell us otherwise. Are we prepared to think about that, to act now and plan ahead?
With age, we tend to measure success by tracking finances and medical checkups. We know that it is wise to incorporate into our lives more safety measures, a healthier diet, regular exercise, rest and relaxation. What further advice does Lady Wisdom offer us to be prepared?
Proverbs 9:9-11 (New Revised Standard Version) Give instruction to the wise, and they will become wiser still; teach the righteous and they will gain in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life.Are we humble and faithful? Do we seek insight and appreciate wise rebukes?
Are we loving and free from fear? Do we calmly speak the truth and act justly?
Are we open and optimistic? Do we ask questions and enjoy life?
Are you prepared?
Beautifully written and wonderfully asked. And I love the photo. Am I prepared? Probably not – in and of myself. Am I relying on God to lift me over the chasms in my life? A resounding yes! Thanks for asking me to think about being prepared.
Thank you for sharing your kind words and thoughts.