A word of encouragement:

The sun is on its way down over the city of Iquitos and the clouds are beginning change colors. I notice once again the multitude of vultures that are perpetually soaring, circling thousands of feet over this city. I wonder to myself "why the effort to climb so high when you have an endless supply of food in the markets and trash dumps of the city?" It doesn't make much sense in terms of survival. But as I look at these normally ugly birds that spend their day sifting through the refuse of mankind, I can't help but think that maybe they take these moments, this time and effort to climb high above the noise and the smell of waste so that they can feel the freedom and joy that it is to simply enjoy God's beautiful creation. Maybe if they didn't soar through the golden hues of sunset with a clear beautiful breeze each day, they wouldn't be able to stand eating garbage.

There are so many parallels that could be made to our everyday lives, but if I could encourage you with 1 thing it's this: compare these two pictures, they are the exact same species of bird and could have been taken within minutes of one another. Be careful not to judge someone from just a snapshot of their lives. Try to look at the person from a complete viewpoint. Also for you personally- try every day to soar, whether that be a moment of reflection, time with your spouse or children, prayer, taking a walk, or just putting your phone down for a few minutes. You will find that the garbage you wade through each and every day will be much easier to deal with. Much love and blessings.
MICHAEL FIORE