Saturday, November 14, 2009

Campfire thoughts

This weekend I went camping with a group of friends. Its always nice to get out into nature and camp. I love getting away from town a little bit and knowing that all I have is with me. We had 13 people there just sitting around the fire for hours on end. It was great.

I had a few thoughts while I was there. There is something about camping that I love. Its the simplicity thats appealing. Being away from the fast paced world, with nearly nothing with you, certainly no service on your phone, and likely being cold. I just got to thinking about those who are less fortunate that I. Those who live in the outdoors because thats what life has brought them, having next to nothing to their name, no cell phone to lose service with, and also being called. We call them homeless.

As I battled to sleep through the chilly night, I couldn't help but think 'when I get home I'll have a warm bed to sleep in. Tomorrow night you'll sleep just fine under the comfort of your heated roof' Those who are homeless don't have that luxury. Each night is just the same in the bitterness of the night. Its cold, and dark, its piercing and lonely. It made me sad. Sad mostly because the reality is that I could care less most of the time of that realty.

During dinner last night, aka making hotdogs and s'mores (some of my favorite things in the world) I kept thinking, 'man I wish I had hot chocolate.' Other things crossed my mind as things I wanted. An extra blanket, another kind of food, etc. It made me sick to think that I'm just never satisfied. I always want something else, even when abundance is at my fingertips. It was just good to evaluate my desires and see that I have plenty. I'm in the top percentage of wealth, even when I think I'm poor. I suspect you are too. Maybe I'll start thinking about others more often. Luke 6:30 continues to be my battle.

In a less serious way, camping was really great. We didn't talk about my thoughts, we just shared stories, played games, ate a looot, and enjoyed the company of good friends. What a nice weekend!

Blessings

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