I have a practice of walking every morning. Because the weather is unpredictable, I check several sources before heading outside.
When I first went outside this morning I thought I was overdressed. The temperature was warmer than expected and the air was calm. Thirty minutes later a strong wind came up and it was swirling. No matter what direction I was headed, I was walking into the wind.
Suddenly, I was glad to have those extra layers of clothing. I went out walking in the afternoon, and the wind had only gotten stronger and colder.
The changing winds remind me of pop culture. New ideas come and go, but it seems that people get caught up in them nonetheless. Social media adds to this phenomenon. Just a little while ago it was popular to film yourself leaving a moving vehicle to dance alongside of it. It seems a new social challenge is made popular every week.
Most of these trends are harmless and pass quickly. Others, however, change our thoughts, values and behaviors. These can be disturbing or even dangerous. Keeping with the Kardasians can make you believe that superficiality is glamorous. Fame, no matter how it is achieved, becomes the goal.
Most people find that following the social media winds leads to emptiness and sorrow. Feeding your soul with truth and meaningful activity provides much longer term joy and fulfillment.
Serving others blesses them as well as your own heart. Searching for the truth strengthens the soul and brings true happiness.
“Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, O righteous, shout for joy, all you upright in heart.” Psalm 32:11
Reluctant Retiree 