Shadows. We all have one. But how big a shadow do we cast?
In many ways, the legacy we leave behind depends on the shadow we cast. Will that image be big or small; good or downright awful? Friendly or frightening?
Childish Shadows
As a child I had lots of fun with my own shadow. I could chase this delightful counterpart but never quite catch up with her. Sometimes I would make animal figures from the shadows of my hands and have the other kids guess if it was a rabbit, cat, frog … . Child’s play is wonderful.
But childish behaviors will label us either good or bad in the minds of our neighbors and peers. Attentive parents care about instilling wholesome values like honesty and kindness into their children. They also want to know who their son’s and daughter’s close friends are. A classmate with a bullying shadow isn’t going to make a good best friend. One with good study and play habits and empathy for others is welcomed.
Adult Shadows
As an adult, grown-up shadows often carry-over from childhood. But the older we get, the more the shadow-metaphor comes into focus. How we live and interact with our family, our money management, our co-workers, and the community matters. Well-placed shadows hold powerful influence. The beauty of their legacy lingers long after we are gone.
Do-Overs Are Smart
Have you messed up your shadow? Is your past a checkered story? Don’t let that keep you from finishing well. What I learned years ago was that the dark of night removed my shadow. But the next day’s sunshine brought it back. Grab hold of that fresh image. With God’s help start over—cast a new shadow. Repent, make amends for yesterday’s shadow, exchange those old behaviors for quality actions. God will smile and plenty of people will appreciate who you are becoming.
