A few days ago, I was reading in the book, You Own The Power by Rosemary Altea, and came across this passage on page 28, "To see our bodies as beautiful is not vanity. To learn to cherish that which not only houses the soul, but enables the soul access to the planet on which we live, is a joyful thing."
My mind caught on the phrase, 'houses the soul.'
I thought about some of my favorite magazines - House Beautiful, DIY, Better Homes and Gardens...I can spend alot of time looking through them. I'll see a Tuscan villa and think, "That is so beautiful!'' The next section will show me a log home and I'll think, "Now, THAT is gorgeous!'' A few pages later, I'll see a beach home and say, "That is amazing!" Whichever style I see, I can appreciate the innate beauty in its design. Admire the beauty in the uniqueness of each home.
Why, then, am I so hard on the design that houses my own soul? Why do I criticize and complain about the fact that it isn't to society's standards? I comment negatively about the architect's work, and He, being a perfect Heavenly Father listens to my disparaging comments with love.
My thoughts then turned to a favorite story of mine, You Are Special by Max Lucado. I recalled the woodcarver telling Punchinello, "You are special because I made you, and I don't make mistakes."
And after letting these inspired thoughts roll around in my head, I was moved again by the great love that is always around us but sometimes have to remember to feel.
So I am trying now to notice the special touches that have been given to my 'house.' To honor the specific details unique to my design. I was never meant to fit into another's mold. And while every home could use the occasional renovation and sprucing up, I feel less concerned that it is not so trendy. My one purpose is to make it as warm and welcoming to the Spirit as possible. Fashions come and go...but only certain structures are made to withstand the tests of time. I want to be one of them. I know a perfect designer made it possible for me to be so.
