A word from the Director

Perspective:
What is perspective?

Well, it’s obviously related to the way we view something. The term literally suggests “looking through…seeing clearly.” If we view life with proper perspective we have the capacity to see things in their true relationship to others or relative importance in the big picture.  We are able to distinguish the incidental from the essential; the temporary from the eternal.

A leader without perspective can be visionless, intimidated, and vulnerable. Perspective eases the demands and reduces the urgency, adding a breath of fresh air to the pressures of everyday life.  Perspective sometimes provides the space we need to cope.

To the struggling businessman/woman who has a tough series of months, perspective brings hope and the promise of brighter days. To the parent of a demanding child, perspective reminds us this too shall pass and all will grow stronger because of the challenges.  For the teacher who finally catches of glimpse of her impact on a troubled student, perspective motivates her and renews her determination.

What prompts us to look at things with the proper perspective?  For some of us, it’s a momentous event like the end of a year, a birthday or an unfortunate tragedy.  For others, it’s the environment: stillness, a beautiful beach setting, inspiring music.  Or sometimes it’s a look into the lives of those less fortunate. For many of us, meditation upon scriptures puts all of life into perspective.

We feel perspective come over us as time seems to stand still. The fog clears away and the distractions are removed as the chips of insignificance fall away.  The broad images of truth and purpose emerge.  We begin to see more clearly and we are no longer running.

As we approach the end of a year and I celebrate a significant birthday, my perspective is affected by both events.  I consider whether places and moments of proper perspective are “shelters of the Most High?” I am reminded of Psalm 91. I wonder if I am there, “abiding in the shadow of the Almighty.”

As we head towards the sometimes frenetic pace of the holiday season and the end of yet another year, I ask you to think about your focus, your perspective.  Are you in His shadow? Are you allowing time for your “shelter?”

We have been blessed to have so many of you share our vision for ACE and assist us during this past year. We hope you will continue to pray for us, visit us and support us in the coming year. From our perspective here at ACE, we couldn’t be happier to have you be a part of our family!

Marla Day-Fitzwater
Executive Director