It was a quiet Sunday afternoon when the rain stopped. The smell of wet dirt filled the air and the harsh sun was swept neatly behind low hanging clouds. Nature beckoned us to come outside. So my husband and I listened, and went for a walk. We approached a home with overgrown grass along the sidewalk, and for the first time, I noticed something I hadn't seen before. A brick red fire hydrant, chipped gray by constant weathering, was almost camouflaged by its green companions.
"Wow, you were there all this time?" I quietly thought to myself. Now that I was aware of its presence, I noticed that there were actually three other fire hydrants stationed along the horseshoe road. (Now everywhere I drive, I'm seeing them). I knew there was some wisdom I could learn about life and my identity from these little pieces of metal, so in my blog post, I'm going to share three of them with you.
Be Rooted
The part of the hydrant that we cannot see is deeply installed in the ground, with larger valves and connections. It is so firmly rooted in the ground that it is not easily moved. If I want to be strong to withstand the storms of life, then I need to be deeply planted in what is true and unshakable.
The Inside Matters More
The hydrant is connected to a deep source of water. This means that there is a powerful source of life on the inside of me. My outer body might look battered and bruised like the fire hydrant above, but the real value is on the inside.
Establish my Boundaries
Although fire hydrants are accessible to the public, the valves of the fire hydrant cannot be opened and used by anyone who simply wants water. It must be opened by those who are prepared to open it. In the same way, I guard my heart and establish boundaries because I understand that the treasure inside is meant to be shared with those who will value it.
A fire hydrant - so unnoticeable most times, but filled with so much wisdom. These were some of the lessons I learnt from the hydrant, but I am sure there are many more. Is there any that you can think of? Feel free to share them in the comments below.
Kerry-Ann McPherson
Project Manager & Managing Editor, VBD Magazine
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