New Perspectives

I injured my shoulder this weekend. Well, a more appropriate phrase may be, "irritated my shoulder." On Friday evening, I was taking a bath. I was listening to music and wanted to keep my hands dry so that I could easily find the my songs of choice. Apparently, my right shoulder was not accustomed to the position I held it in for nearly 30 minutes...and, by the time I exited the bath, it spasmed in protest.
This spasming continued that night and all day Saturday. My range of motion was severely limited. Since I am right-handed, this did not make anything  - even getting dressed and using the restroom - easy for me. I spent most of the day frustrated and in tears, while attempting to function. 
Finally, at the request of my husband, I stopped doing things. It was determined - by him mostly - that rest, in addition to alternating ice and heat, were the best solutions and would lead to quicker healing. By Sunday, I had a little more movement without pain, but was still limited.
As I type this, I am wondering how much time I am going to have to spend icing my shoulder after I'm done. 
For me, this incident was just one more reminder that things can't always be looked at or done the same way. There may be a new way. A better, more efficient way. At least for a season.
When I couldn't use my right arm, I became depedent on my left arm. While I always have this arm, I don't depend on it often, at least solely. But, it still worked. Not in the same way, but it worked.
This weekend, I also re-read The Shack, by Wm. Paul Young. I read this book several years ago, found it in a box in my closet last week and felt led to read it again. Because I was so limited in my activity for the weekend, I was able to finish the book.
One of my favorite quotes in the book comes from a scene in which God is speaking to the main character, Mack. He says, 
Remember this, humans are not defined by their limitations, but by the intentions I have for them;  not by what they seem to be, but by everything it means to be created in my image.
If you haven't read this book, I encourage you to. It is fascinating and confusing and will give you a new perspective on God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Or, at least it will challenge you to re-examine your own perspective.
How fitting that I would read this book this weekend. Coincidence? I don't believe in those anymore. 
However, I do believe in a God who has orchestrated every moment of my life and is with me in all of them.

This knowledge causes me to change and gain new perspectives. And, challenges me to step outside what I think I know to search for his answer. 
He has known me. He is knowing me. He will forever know me.