Being in a different country can give you a different perspective on life. It will most likely differ depending on the country. Being in Central America is certainly different from being in a modern and pretty well-off country like Finland. But whether it’s because you’re seeing the ravages of war and poverty or the way people live in a country you may think is similar to your own, you still gain a new perspective.
Finns are touted to be the “happiest” people in the world, whatever that means. One thing is sure, however: there is a deep connection to the natural world. Highway and road design takes this into account. Bicycle and walk lanes are real lanes, not just six inches on the side of the road; they run alongside motorways all over the country.
This connection to nature is in both urban and open areas. The respect for what God has given is clear. There are not just two recycling bin for cans and bottles and the second for paper; there are usually four, separating “biowaste” and mixed waste. The biowaste goes into producing energy for those long Finnish winters. And there is almost no litter. We could learn a lot from a people who love and care for God’s world.
Prayer for the Day
Just above the horizon you can almost see the sun,
Still with its rays giving warmth to the earth;
Reaching almost to the sky the birches look to the heavens,
Their leaves just starting to turn in the early morning chill.
Hold us, Holy One, in the beauty of the moment,
So we feel your Presence throughout the day.
In the name of the One who is your Presence in our lives,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The forest answers in the same way one shouts at it.
Finnish proverb
Travelling is about making comparisons.
Matti Kurjensaari, author (1907-1988)
By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established;
By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
Wise warriors are mightier than strong ones,
And those who have knowledge than those who have strength;
For by wise guidance you can wage your war
And in abundance of counselors there is victory
Proverbs 24: 3-6