the joy of sharing

If I were to explain how our lives go in stages, and I could only do that based on my own life experience, I would say this;

1. First, we are consumed with ourselves, our needs, our desires, our goals, and “our” satisfaction.
2. Second, at some point, we become more interested in others, but still maintain a pretty strong dose of self gratification.
3. Finally, we begin to realize that as much fun as it is to get what we want, the joy of sharing it with others is even greater! Unfortunately, self concern never goes away completely, but at this stage of life it is at least, subdued.

While I’m sure these changes are related to age and experience, I’m also pretty sure that they differ with each of us. The one thing I know for sure is when you start to really get into sharing
with others, it becomes is the best time of your life.

In October, Scott Kelby and I, and some other great friends, are doing a workshop out west for a group of photographers that will join us. I’ve been to the areas we will photograph at least twenty five times, so none of it will be new to me, but the joy of seeing the look on other’s faces when they experience this incredible place, will bring me more pleasure than I had the first time I was in awe standing in the same spots!

God grants us many joyful experiences in life, and then we get the joy of watching others feel that same since of wonder. The National Parks are some of our greatest natural treasures, and the ones we will visit during these two events are among the most spectacular of all. The image above is from the Paria Wilderness Area, just outside Page, Arizona. It is a magical place that few people ever discover. It is so much fun to take folks there and see how it affects them.

Remember, our mission is to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves…….

Philippians 2: 1-5

 1 Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
 3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

Today would be a great day to jump to the next level of awareness of others………..

the pilgrim

*Photo note: F100 Film camera, Velvia film, 80-200 f 2.8 AF lens. Paria Wilderness Area,
late afternoon.