And now I gaze upon these hills and forests and flowers with a melancholy sigh. As a visitor from Texas, I came from an area that is brown, dusty, with a hot sun and tumbleweeds to a place that emanates growth. Everywhere there are green hills, forests, valleys. I can drive 10 minutes and come to a beautiful, cold, clear river (so clear I can see the fish). There is so much beauty here, in the Northwest, and I remember how easy it was to take it for granted - to miss it entirely.
Maybe sometimes it takes something harsh and rugged to make me appreciate something so naturally beautiful. Maybe it takes living in the desert to appreciate the coolness of water, the drops of rain. It takes being surrounded by 15 shades of brown for years to appreciate 4 days in a place lit by color.
It has been said that in order to see beauty, we must see what is not beautiful. In order to understand what is good, we must encounter difficulty. It is an interesting idea, a thought to be pondered. I do know that while I am here, I feel as if I have been given new eyes, a new way to see this place. I am awed, while those around me are bored.
I wish I could take just that feeling back with me - the feeling of appreciation for the beauty surrounding me. The ability to see what is special in that which I pass every day. I know there is exquisite loveliness that can be found in the plains. I want new eyes to see that too.
Texas has its rolling plains and endless skies. The sunsets can take your breath away. Washington has white capped mountains, lush rain-forests, and crystal clear waterfalls. I know that there are Texans who will vouch for their state's beauty, and some North Westerners who can't stand the 280 days of rain.
Each creation has been lovingly carved and designed by Omnipotent Perfection, and He is the most Beautiful of All. Jesus, please give me new eyes so that I can see You more clearly, and in seeing You more clearly, be able to appreciate this world in which you have placed me.
