A Closer Look

There is nothing quite like a photograph to capture a moment. A moment that would otherwise vanish. A warm glance. A smile. A breathtaking sunset.

Recently, however, I was struck by the limitation of a photo – the details that get lost in translation. And all because of something as profound and inspiring as a blue shirt!

This particular shirt, I have to say, is stinkin cute. Delicate fabric covered with a wavy textured pattern. A go-to, dress it up or down, simple yet stylish selection. (Spoken from a girl who spends a considerable amount of time in yoga pants, t-shirts, and flip-flops but just go with me on this).

When I saw a picture of myself in said shirt, all of the intricacies were gone. Completely. The image revealed a plain navy blue top. A sad misrepresentation.

Without looking beyond the phone screen, beyond what was immediately visible, the truth became distorted.

Haven’t we all been there? Feeling like assumptions are made about us when there is so much more to who we are. So much more to our story.

And while I hate to admit it, I have also been on the other side of this equation. The side where I pass judgement rather than showing compassion. Where I choose to make an assessment about someone when it isn’t my place to do so. It is only my place to love them.

Romans 12:10 asks us to “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” So when I see that frazzled mom in Target losing her cool, an encouraging word or a quiet prayer is a better plan than a negative thought or a judgey gawk. I really don’t have a clue about her life. Perhaps if given the chance to look more closely, to see the texture and the details,  I would find beauty… and a good mom having a bad day.

With strangers, and equally with those close to us, it is easy to judge rather than love. What a blessing we can be if we just give each other a break. And a smile.

As we enter another school year, filled with countless interactions and new faces, I’m going to carry this call with me. The call to love and honor one another, leaving the judgement at home. The call to look at others more closely, beyond Facebook or gossip. The call to treat people as we would like to be treated, glorifying God with every action. The call to seek out the stunning patterns in that plain blue shirt, trusting that there is more than meets the eye.

Much love,

“Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. After that, who cares? He’s a mile away and you’ve got his shoes.” Bill Connell