“Bretheren, I count not myself to have apprehended; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. ” Philippians 3:13-14 KJV.
An old friend of mine has returned. Each year during the hottest part of the summer, this vine makes its appearance on a street corner near my home. You might see this as a sign of neglect. Perhaps city maintenance crews should pay closer attention to this location. But, this vine shows up and does it’s work very quickly, and with no notice. One day, there is a tiny tendril on the ground, and seemingly overnight, it has gathered strength and crept upward, aiming to cover the stop-sign and the street sign. This year, it has also captured the power pole and utility boxes nearby.
What you don’t see in this picture, is that the landscape around the vine’s habitat has changed drastically in recent weeks. Construction on either side has cleared out most other vegetation. Old pines that stood watch for years are just a memory. But, the vine persists. It waits for its chance, takes advantage of an unusually wet spring and summer, and sets out on its annual quest again.
Forgetting what is behind. Reaching forth to things which are before. Good on you, defiant little vine. Good on you.
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