What If the Wait Is the Point?

Life is full of opportunities and periods in which one simply waits for the next "thing" to happen. During the Winter, when the cold breeze becomes a little too cold, we can't wait for Spring. While in Spring, we watch the flowers bloom, the grass get greener, and suddenly the pollen, sneezing, and irritated eyes have us waiting for Summer. Summer enters the scene, and we unpack our shorts, tank tops, and swimwear to have fun in the sun, until the heat index rises above 90 degrees and the wait for Autumn begins. Now, the leaves are turning colors, the smell of Pumpkin Spice lingers in the air, fairs come and go, families gather to celebrate, yet we still can't wait until we can see Winter once more.

What is the meaning of the word "wait"? It is to allow time to go by, especially while staying in one place without doing very much, until someone comes, until something that you are expecting happens, or until you can do something. Of course, I must dig a bit deeper. There have been times when life has thrown obstacle after obstacle, and I would want it to be over. I wanted to be able to press the reset button as if I were able to restart my life and fix everything instantly. However, that's not how it works. During the tough times, I found myself praying and hoping things were going to get better. I failed to realize that I was missing an opportunity in the wait.

There is great value and lessons taught during the waiting period. Like a pregnant woman who waits to become a mother, she learns and grows within nine months to nurture the seed that developed inside her womb. She starts out as a woman, but during the waiting, she becomes a mother and dedicates her life to her child. We must also remember the beauty in waiting. While in the wait, our character is refined, faith can be restored, and often times our hearts are aligned with God's perfect will. It may not be easy, but with growth, preparation, and trust, it will be worth it. So, I am learning not to settle in the wait, but to ask God, "What do You want me to do in the waiting?"