A father, who happens to be a police officer, wrote a letter to his kids, sealed it in a plain white envelope, and put it in his locker at work with instructions not to open it unless something horrible happened to him. He described it this way: “It’s three pages long, and it sums up what I’ve learned in four decades of life: Live in the moment, do not attach yourself to physical things, treat others the way you would like to be treated, find happiness in the service of others, make the most out of today, follow your dreams, etc.” As a police officer, he noted that he’d seen life ended or irrevocably changed in an instant. Knowing that the letter is there makes him more comfortable with his own mortality. And it reminds him to be careful at work and to strive to truly practice all the things he’s written down. (Essay by Tim Wilson in book This I Believe: On Fatherhood)
As I read this brief essay, I loved the little details it included: how the letter was held in place by a Marvin the Martian magnet, and that it was surrounded by other things, like photos of his kids, “Far Side” cartoons, poems, business cards, and other miscellany. More importantly, the letter is visible every time this father puts on his police uniform, and on some level is a reminder about being safe and doing good as he goes about his work routine.
What are the things you have on your desk or near your workspace (whether at a job or at home)? In particular, what photos or mementos, souvenirs or keepsakes, do you have near you that remind you of what is important in your life? Do a survey of these items. Take stock of the photos, trinkets, postcards, and clippings that fall within your gaze every day. I hope they are things that energize or inspire you; or at least things that make you smile.
But also notice whether any of the items have a clear “faith component” to them. Are any of them religious in nature – perhaps a short scripture verse, an inspirational message, a bit of religious artwork? Do any of them make reference to virtues toward which we should all strive: peace, justice, love, hope, or serve as reminders for healthy habits we should daily practice – pray, laugh, forgive, listen?
I have a rock upon which my daughter painted “Best Dad Ever,” as if it was a movie review. I have another polished rock that has been engraved with only one word, justice. I have a small wooden copy of the crucifix that St. Francis of Assisi saw on a chapel wall, in which he heard the voice of Christ tell him to “go and repair my house.” I have a photograph someone gave me of a beautiful sunset.
I mention these things only to spark your own imagination. It takes so little to tilt an entire day in the direction of God, as opposed to only being focused on the ways of the world. It takes so little to remind us to do good, love justice, and walk humbly with the Lord. And yet, from so little can come so much. This month, find something “faith-full” to put in your line of sight each day and allow God to use that little thing as the means to a deeper commitment to the ways of the Spirit and Truth and Joy.