In the Shadow

I was doing my Bible reading this morning and was distracted by the still scene out my family room window. It was kind of strange that just some trees caught my attention, but they did. There are trees of all age and sizes in our backyard and neighborhood. And yes - I started thinking about the teenage years - I know, I'm pathetic, but at least I'm admitting it.

I was reminded (I was a teen once too) that as a teen, you're always trying to get out from under the shadow of your parents...they're everywhere looking over you - much like the bigger trees crowding out the smaller ones. But one day, eventually - those smaller trees get taller and larger and start casting shadows right next to the larger ones. No longer are the smaller trees overshadowed...but rather casting their own, and ironically, many times right alongside the trees that once overshadowed them.

The moral of this scene, you ask? Be patient...don't rush out from under your parents. The time will come, and come quickly - more quickly than you think. The time will come when you come out of your parents' shadow and start casting your own - and probably right next to your parents. Value and enjoy this time in the shadows - make the most of it...and don't rush out of it. The time will come...and in all reality - the more you value and take advantage of the time in the shadows - the stronger you'll be when you standing alone or alongside the "big trees."