20/20 Vision

​Think back four months ago… January 1st, 2020.  We entered into a new decade.  We were full of hope, determination, and passion.  We made new year’s resolutions and/or declared one word to summarize our goals for the year.  I saw social media post after post about having 20/20 vision!
 
Four months later as we find ourselves in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, I ask, “What do you see with your 20/20 vision?”  I see a world divided, a nation divided, a town divided, and questionable leadership (in too many areas to list).  My perfect 20/20 vision in the pandemic shines light on time, money, character, and heart.
 
Time
The busyness I once had, I no longer have.  My evenings used to begin with me rushing in from work to hurry and cook dinner.  My mind would be so full of work and other issues that may be going on that I couldn’t really relax or enjoy the evening.  I now take an energizing and calming walk around the neighborhood each afternoon to signal to my brain to turn off work and anything else that may have invaded my mind during the day and turn on the family time.  After my walk, I cook dinner, take a calming soak in the tub, and settle in for the evening.  My mind is clear and ready to enjoy time with my family.
My 20/20 vision shows me to stop the busyness and to stop and smell the roses.  
 
Money
Not being able to do the things I once thought were non-negotiables, I see that they may not be so mandatory after all.  My hair, nails, housekeeper… it all adds up.  I am saving more money now that I’m unable to spend money on these things and realizing that I’m not so bad at doing them myself.  
My 20/20 vision shows me to be a better steward of my finances.
 
Character
True character shows during adversity.  Who we really are shines through when things get tough.  How do we respond when things don’t go our way?  How do we respond when we lose control of everything around us? Leaders, how do we respond when our teams don’t willingly follow?  The reality of how we respond to these questions will reveal our true character. 
My 20/20 vision shows me to work on my character… be braver, be more honest (with ourselves and with others), be more compassionate, be more unselfish, and to be more loyal.
 
Heart
Our conversation and actions are representative of our heart.  My heart is shown each time I make a decision that is best for me and not others.  My heart is shown each time I intentionally use my words to hurt others.  Likewise, my heart is shown each time I make decisions that may be inconvenient for me, but is what’s best for others.  My heart is shown each time I make the choice not to use my words to hurt others, but to instead, find a more effective way to express myself.
My 20/20 vision shows me the need to ask God to do a heart transplant on me… to give me His heart and desires so that I may love like He does (unconditionally).
 
What do you see more clearly in your life from your 20/20 vision?