In The Details
We tend to think that the “devil is in the details” because someone came up with that phrase who knows how long ago. It’s a common thought when someone mentions details.
Thing is, it’s just not the truth.
God is in the details. He’s the one who made the massiveness of the universe AND the tiniest atom, we cannot see. He is details.
Image by Aaron Burden. https://aaronburden.com/card
Lately, I’ve reflected on details. I've noticed, some things I think are random and even inconsequential can have significance. When I pay attention to the smallest of intuitions or thoughts which feel fleeting, I've noticed, they can carry importance. If I choose to trust these quick moments of intuition, I discover there may be something wonderful on the other side.
Today, I had a moment to choose whether or not I’d follow a desire to continue a silly and rather frivolous tradition Rich and I had. To upgrade to the new iPhone of the year. He’d set us up with a certain wireless plan which allows for multiple upgrades in a year. And of course, that's what we’d do. Well this year, I debated doing it. I wanted the new iPhone 12 Mini because I remember enjoying smaller phones. I know Rich would encourage me to get the one I wanted. Not to settle. So, I stood in the living room debating this. Do I go? Do I just talk myself out of it and stay home? I wanted to be equipped in my decision, so I chose to review the monthly budget first.
Image by Thom from the Netherlands. https://thomv.com/
I reviewed my spending plan for the month and decided I had a certain max. If the phone upgrade cost more than that amount, I would pass. Which would be quite easy for me. So, now ready, I chose to go ahead and get the information I needed to make my decision - find our how much it cost.
As I arrived, I was quickly greeted with a salesperson who was ready to help me. I explained the tradition to him and he was kind to inquire more about my story. As we talked, I was able to complete the transaction in about 15 mins and had zero cost out if pocket. My monthly bill even came out to be less. It went far better than I could have asked for and even felt like Rich’s usual deal-getting self, was involved somehow. It was amazing.
Then as I decided what to do next, I found myself visiting one of my favorite clothing stores with coupon in hand. Since I had not used any budget on the phone, I chose to consider getting a few new items I’d like. Now, this is a store Rich knew I enjoyed. And also, he knew I don't like spending money on myself. So much so, that several years ago he bought me a gift card to this store because he knew that if the money was already reserved for this store, I would buy something. It was that bad. I've since learned over the years how to be more intentional about taking care of myself and purchasing new things. So, into this store I went and it turned out great. I was able to spend the amount close to what I expected to spend on the phone trade and walked away with some of the coziest, softest pieces.
On the way home, I bought a salad that we used to get together. When I arrived home, I changed into my new, softer clothes, queued up a fantastic Christmas movie and enjoyed my salad.
It was almost like I had an evening with Richie. As if he was still taking care of me.
It was all in the little details. The small things showed me, Rich is still looking out for me. He's still loving me. God, the one who created the universe has made a way for me to connect with Rich through the cosmos and to feel this connection with him. That's the goodness of our loving Father. The one who made us, even down to the tiniest detail. Had I not stopped and considered this choice, I could have missed a special evening. Only in taking step by step, putting one foot in front of the other, could I have this treasure.