We have an unattractive backyard, enclosed by a dilapidated fence unworthy of repair, in need of demolition. The ground is covered by weeds, not grass, and for whatever reason a previous owner of the property thought gravel would be a suitable ground cover. We store our stinky trashcans and recycle bins back there, a grill, sawhorses, bicycles and bike rack, and random pieces of lumber. I try to organize this hodgepodge of clutter every time it's time to hack down the weeds, but it always looks like junk. And I let it get me down. Clutter equals chaos in my mind. I envision the pretty patio and newly fenced-in space Tim and I talk about where our girls will be safe to play and enjoy the sunshine. But I saw that ugly thatch of ground in a new light today. I had to take out the trash, a job I frequently ask my husband to do because though I'm more than capable I've always thought big, strong men should take out the trash. Anyhow, I was doing it, and Ella wanted to help. So we made it out the back door, a small feet in itself given the current state of chaos my storage room is in; and Ella stepped outside into her unattractive backyard. Only she didn't see it that way. While I deposited the overfilled trash bag into a container, she took in her surroundings. I turned around to see her arms outstretched and her twirling saying happily, "It's beautiful out here, it's beautiful out here."
In that moment God's sweet Holy Spirit used my two year old's words to break up a hard spot in my heart. The backyard is not perfect, it's far from complete, but little eyes can look beyond and see the beauty it possesses, namely it's illuminated by Heaven's light. Ella's comment gave me a new perspective on my backyard, something to ponder as I view my life and others, and a sweet memory to keep of her and what a blessing she is to my life.
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