Dec 14, 2012
Today we had a day of silence. This post was hand-written throughout the day. These are just a few reflections from the experience.
11:30 am
Today is a day of silence and reflection. At first, I was
very excited about this because we were having this at the Brookfield Zoo! However,
as the day approached, I began to have concerns. Being alone with my thoughts
can be a scary thing sometimes. I begin to doubt myself, lose all confidence,
and question my faith. I was reminded this morning, before beginning our
silence, that it is good to question; it makes the beliefs you have stronger.
Having made my way halfway through the zoo, I can’t help but think about what a
great and amazing God we have and serve.
I have the time today to read about each animal and the
habitats. It’s really incredible to read how everything works together.
I spent a good amount of time in the primate house,
especially watching the gorillas. When I first approached the gorilla section,
one of the females was inspecting her finger nails. I couldn’t help but think
about human females and their desire to have perfectly manicured hands. As I
continued watching I couldn’t help but think about evolution and whether or not
it is something that is true or completely fiction. I was raised to believe
evolution was purely fictional, and made up by man. Gorillas and primates, whether
in wild or captivity, have similar characteristics and mannerisms as humans.
Did we learn from them? Did they learn from us? Now, I’m not suggesting humans
are monkeys, nor am I suggesting we are genetically derived from primates, but
you have to stop and think about the similarities.
12:00 pm
It’s December and I’m at a zoo. It’s a decent day, but still
a bit chilly. I knew I’d be outside today so I dressed accordingly. I love zoos
so I want to see as much as possible. I’ve visited the desert, the rainforest,
and parts of Australia and Africa. I don’t think I’ve sweat more in my life
than today in the rainforest exhibit. May I suggest if you go to the
rainforest, real or artificial, not to wear multiple layers: winter coat,
scarf, hat, and gloves. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
3:40 pm
People ask me what my favorite animal is. My answer is
always the peacock. To me, they are a symbol of beauty. They also have a very
regal and royal presence about them. I’ve seen peacocks before, but usually
females or pictures of males. Today, I had been walking around and saw two
females wandering about pecking at the ground foraging for food. A few hours
later I was walking by the bird and reptile houses, I turned the corner and to
my surprise was a beautiful and regal male peacock! The brilliant blues and
gorgeous greens seemed to sparkle in the sunlight! I was so close to this
magnificent creature I could have reached out and touched it! I literally sat
down on the sidewalk and stared in awe at this stately bird. I began to cry as
I was reminded that I am beautiful and I am a child of God.
3:50 pm
As I prepare to meet back up with my group, I’m thinking of
how reluctant I was to have this day of silence. I was scared I might doubt
myself so much I wouldn’t be able to let God work in my life today. God has
worked in me today! I was walking through one of the many gift shops and heard
a song sung by Josh Groban in which the chorus repeats the phrase, “There is so
much to be thankful for.” It was then I started counting my blessings; for a
pessimist this can be difficult. However, I was not a pessimist today.
- I have a family that loves me. We may not see eye to eye
on some things, but I love them and I know they love me.
- I have a boyfriend who cares about me and I can call on
him day or night.
- I have two beautiful nephews who I think about and pray
for every day.
- I have a church family back home that supports and
encourages me.
- I have truly amazing friends, old and new.
- I get to help kids and touch their lives.
- I live in a tremendously awesome city.
- I get to serve a God who lives.
- I am a child of God.
This list can go on and on, but I know I am truly and richly
blessed!