There in front of us was a huge fence, about 10 feet tall and completely blocking the trail. Mike and I were taken aback. We were many hours into our hike, and it was too late to return the way we came.  We considered simply climbing over the fence to stay on the trail, but it was so overgrown inside this unexpected enclosure that we couldn’t even discern where the trail went.

It was a beautiful summer day, and we had thoroughly enjoyed hiking through the mountains, stopping for a picnic lunch, and leisurely taking our time. Now it seemed we would have to pick up the pace before darkness fell. So, we looked at our map, followed along outside the fence, then figured out what direction to take to a creek which would lead us back to our truck. We made it safely back with time to jump in the creek, cool off, and laugh about our unexpected adventure together.

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Later, we stopped and asked a park ranger about the surprise fenced-off area. She explained that it was an out closure, used to keep animals out while plants and trees are rebuilding. It protects the growing area. It seems we need out closures in our lives at times, also.

The trouble can come when the fence is left up too long, and the growth becomes a wild overgrowth of weeds and thorns. Why am I thinking about all this now? I want to see smiles, handshakes, and hugs return. Smiles are contagious, and I’m convinced that we need them. I am concerned that we are creating a culture of fear – fear of each other. As someone wisely said to me recently, we should be allowed to hold hands. May I suggest keeping the fear out and letting the love in? As for me, that is how I want to live.

“Let all that you do be done with love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14

Keep the fear out, and let the love in.

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