We use fire as a metaphor for life experience all the time. Garth Brooks sings about “standing outside the fire.” At Mass we sing of God strengthening us “like gold that’s tested in fire.” Only a little while I ago I was writing about the flames of experience, referencing William Blake.
Not surprisingly, I think about fire a lot. I’ve experienced its power, which is amazing and frightening. I think about all the things we had–a houseful of furniture, keepsakes, clothes, household goods–and I say to John, “Where did it all GO?” Because it’s not just there, damaged–it’s GONE, all of it, unrecognizable for the most part.
So when we use fire as a metaphor, I wonder if we really know what we are saying. See, here’s the thing about fire–it doesn’t just destroy, it CONSUMES. Sure, fire is transformative, and it may “temper” some things, but most things it transforms into ashes.
Some of us may be made stronger and better through the trials we undergo in this life, but I think we need to be more understanding of those who are consumed and destroyed by them.
Fireproof
It’s an interesting way to consider fire… I tend to think of it in terms of “out of the fire” (trial) and making things new.. but not always the case. And on a personal note- I can’t even imagine going through a home fire and losing everything. How very devastating.
I used to look at it that way too. For obvious reasons, I’ve thought about this a lot. 🙂
Fire does consume and it certainly is amazing and frightening. It’s so hard to believe just how powerful it really is. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and your story. I’m so sorry you had to go through that.
Thank you! It’s truly amazing how fast it does what it does.
I wonder about the people who feverishly say that they are on fire, and that spreads to others. But what if they are wrong? It’s going to be very difficult to put out.
Thanks for sharing your story, I am sorry you had to go through that. Many things in this world have that frightening power to destroy and consume; fire, water and wind come to mind. While they all do great wonderful things, they can also cause very tragic things.
Good points! If you’ve ever watched one of those tsunami videos you see the amazing destructive power of water. Just terrifying.
fire does consume.. so true to the thought. I have had and an experience with fire. Thanks for sharing
Thank you for reading and commenting!
This is so very true. We all deal with challenges differently. We can’t assume that everyone will be able to deal with obstacles the same way we would. It doesn’t mean they are weak or less than. They just might need an extra dose of compassion.