The Value of Encounters, Part 1: What We Encounter
From the time we are children, we receive many different toys and belongings. When someone gives us a special toy or object, we often feel joy. We become attached to it, and it brings happiness into our lives. Sometimes a toy can even become the source of painful memories. We may have argued or fought with someone over it. At other times, those same objects teach us how precious something can be. They may even awaken feelings of desire or greed within us. As we grow into our teenage years, the things we own begin to change. We collect items that fit that stage of life, and they become part of our most treasured memories. We grow attached to them. They may create conflicts with friends, yet they can also strengthen friendships. Sometimes they even become the reason we are admired or accepted by others. As young adults, we encounter another set of possessions that reflect the needs of that season of life. Through them, we experience excitement, hope, fear, gratitude, and many other emoti...