Maybe

Maybe.

A Chinese proverb tells the story is told of an old farmer who had worked his crops for many years. One day his horse ran away. Upon hearing the news, his neighbors came to visit. “Such bad luck,” they said sympathetically.

“Maybe,” the farmer replied.

The next morning the horse returned, bringing with it three other wild horses. “How wonderful,” the neighbors exclaimed.

“Maybe,” replied the old man.

The following day, his son tried to ride one of the untamed horses, was thrown, and broke his leg. The neighbors again came to offer their sympathy on his misfortune.

“Maybe,” answered the farmer.

The day after, military officials came to the village to draft young men into the army. Seeing that the son’s leg was broken, they passed him by. The neighbors congratulated the farmer on how well things had turned out.

“Maybe,” said the farmer.

Change me O God, into one who doesn’t judge my life.  Who doesn’t see events that happen to me as good or bad, lucky or unlucky, fortunate or unfortunate – for only time will tell the whole story.  And aren’t you working all things for good in my life no matter what?  I often like living at extremes, but help me also to learn to live in moderation, even keeled, taking all things in stride.  Help me to live with acceptance, trust, expectancy and a spirit of adventure as I walk by faith, not by sight.