Beat the Heat!

It was just a few months ago, when we were regularly saying the phrase "Beat the Heat."  Since the temps have been edging upwards here in San Antonio, we have a new meaning for the words "Beat the heat."  Summers in Texas are notorious for being brutal at times.  Sometimes, even the native Texan has been known to complain about the heat.

How can we embrace the season and appreciate it for what it is?  For me, I try a variety of things.   Lots of swimming outdoors.  Cycling super-early on the weekend and being done early!  Watering my half-alive flowers while standing in the sprinkler myself.  Going kayaking. Going to movies. Vacations in August. Ceiling fans. Watching pre-season football, knowing the season is just around the corner.

We can also beat the heat by our attitude.  Sometimes, we forget the reality that you and I have the privilege of being alive on this planet...at this time.  Life is a gift and what a joy to live it, albeit in the summer or winter.  Anton Chekhov once said "People don't notice whether it's winter or summer when they're happy."   I love how summer is a different pace, one in which invites us to truly slow down. Who doesn't need that?  As I slow down, I take time to plan for summer fun, not just get through summer. 

Texas summers are but one minor bump in our lives.  How do we respond to some of the bumps that life throws our way?  Some of you today are carrying some pretty significant burdens in life.  For all intense purposes, it's hard to find any blessing in your burden.  Look hard.  Look up.  Know that God cares for you and loves you so very much.  He will never fail you.  Learn to thank God for the difficulties that come your way.  Look for the blessings.  There are often some really amazing blessings lurking under some of our deepest struggles.

So, yes, we may suffer with a bit of heat for the next few weeks....or even months. But, don't forget to look for the blessings.  Quite complaining.  Your complaints will not change a thing.  You change! If anything, thank God for the gift of being alive.... here and now.  Then, thank God for Willis Haviland Carrier.  He created the first-large scale electrical air conditioner.

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.