I started to define normal for you the other day. But I didn’t mention that our normals can change. A lot. Just think about life. Normal changes with every single life stage…from childhood to adulthood. And how we define normal can continue to evolve.
Wherever we are, whatever stage, we can always unite.
We can find common interests, passions, and similar limitations.
How you work through yours just might help me see a new perspective. And vice versa.
Today I thought my dad and I were taking the normal route to the mall. We parked in our “normal” spot. I don’t go very often, but we have found a favorite “Handicapped Parking” place. It’s right next to the elevator. I’ve never run into an obstacle or been concerned about this elevator not working.
The sign was on the door: “Temporarily Out of Order.”
“Oh no, should we move the van to another level or walk all the way to the end?”
The parking garage was very empty so we decided to walk to the end and see if the next elevator was available.
I drove my wheelchair down the middle of the road. Because I sometimes like to pretend like I’m driving a real car.
Along the way, I commented that we should take pictures of the signs, such as “Exit” and “Do Not Enter.” They looked cool and somehow they may come in handy for a blog post. Like today’s.
We took our time getting to the elevator. Our original purpose for going to the mall had become a mini adventure.
My dad and I were on a mission. We were united in the idea that this small obstacle was actually fun.
A normal day turned into something a little grander. It was unexpected and not normal, but we made it a bit exciting. I accepted the challenge, the change, the chance to take a different route.
This happens with life too. For some reason our normal changes and we are faced with a new normal.
What do we do?
See the opportunity for embracing the next new normal. It might lead you to new things that are really good and things you never imagined for yourself.
This Five Minute Friday post was inspired by the word “unite.”
I really liked this post. Thanks so much. It definitely gave me some things to think about, as I face my own limitations. Stopping by from Five Minute Friday.
Thanks for visiting, Stacey! Any way I can help you think through your limitations? Or send you specific encouragement? Write me a quick message and I’m happy to chat more via email. 😉
I love that your Dad and you made an adventure out of it. I know sometimes I will get aggravated when things don’t go as plan, or how I think it should go. When that happens I get upset with myself and wish I had said small prayer or even taken a short breath. I am glad you took it in stride. It is a lesson I pray I will do next time something doesn’t go as plan. Good job and good example !
Me too, Penny. I don’t always see the adventure side, but I guess I was needing a little extra fun yesterday. Yes, sometimes pausing for a moment is the best thing to work your way to a different perspective. Hope you have a great weekend!
Very good advice! Sometimes the new normal is the best thing that could happen to us. I’ve experienced that a couple of times. I’m really glad you didn’t give up but turned it into an adventure. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Katha! Exactly. We are challenged with new normals, but they are often so good for us…whether we learn important lessons or discover something new about ourselves. Life is definitely a journey!
What a wonderful perspective of unity you’ve highlighted here. I want to be someone who embraces the new normal in and through Christ. But I know that I often shirk in fear or annoyance, rather than embrace the new challenges before me that Christ has empowered me to face in confidence. Thank you for reminding me to embrace, not shirk from! And thank you for visiting my blog the other day…it’s such a blessing to visit yours.
Thank you, Anna! Really appreciate it too. Yes, embrace! Those fears can get in our way, but we can learn to see that God is stronger and bigger…and return to the confidence He provides. The main thing is to persevere…keep trying…even when fears still exist.
Love your stories Laura. Thank you for your encouragement to embrace the new! Your words bless.
Thanks, Maggie! Always enjoy hearing from you too:)