Simple.

"Every starry night, that was His design."
Chris August

I stepped outside tonight and couldn't help but notice the stars shining brightly in the sky. This is a little unusual here in Ecuador because it's normally cloudy. I have so many good memories of starry nights and they evoke such awe and wonder. God is a true artist.

The subtle twinkle, the crisp edge of the night air... Everything takes me to a place of complete and utter serenity. Amidst trials and uncertainty, the world spins a little slower and life seems less complicated under such a magnificent blanket of perfection. I think I could lie awake and stare at the sky for hours. 

When I was young, my dad and I used to walk (or sometimes I'd ride on his shoulders) down the dirt road that led from our house to the campground. He'd point out constellations and I'd eagerly try to memorize the positions of all the stars. There's something about being so enraptured by a moment that you forget about everything else. 

Something about being out, surrounded by the vast and seemingly unending sky, stretching on as far as the eye can see, that reminds you of the true simplicity of life. No matter how many complications we add, the basic idea doesn't change. I so appreciate this reminder. The simplest things always seem to find a way into my heart. 

I can remember countless camping trips, stepping out of the warmth of the tent into the cold night air only to be immediately awestruck by the masterpiece above my head. I do not know why I am so drawn to the marvels of the heavens, but, no matter how many days or years pass, my fascination does not change. I'm sure I'm waxing a little poetic here, but inspiration brings out the wannabe poet in me.

Maybe God created that captivating night sky as a reminder to stop, take a breath, and remember all the things we should be focused on.