Up, up and away

I was taken aback by this picture. Balloons at night with their reflection on the water; how absolutely beautiful! Which raises a good question: What is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen? And does this thing remain the same throughout the years? I remember when I was 7 years old (and I really WAS 7 years old once) I really, really, really, really wanted a Davey Crockett coonskin cap. Then one day the topic of girls came up with one of my parents and I was told that in a year or two I would begin to see girls differently. I couldn't believe it; someone would actually want to spend time with a girl rather than PLAY BASEBALL?? Well, along came Linda and things have never been the same again. Which reminds me of this passage from the Song of Solomon.

Song 2:1-4

1 I am a rose of Sharon, A lily of the valleys.
2 As a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters. Beloved
3 As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, So is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, His fruit was sweet to my taste.
4 He brought me to the banquet hall. His banner over me is love. WEB

Love changes things. You never see beauty the same again. Isn't it a little odd that I can go from a beautiful picture of helium balloons to thoughts of my wife just like that??? Not at all; for that's the way of the heart and it is overpowering. If you want an unusual experience, try re-reading the Song of Solomon. The physical and spiritual love the book exudes have a parallel between the love of God and the church which he purchased with his own blood. Love is wonderful and the true depths of it go beyond the comprehension of any mere mortal. But, I keep trying to understand and although I may never succeed, the trip is wonderful. I am reminded of an old song by the Fifth Dimension which somehow seems appropriate, its title: Up, up and away, my beautiful balloon! Look it up, you might enjoy it!