January 29, 2016 ~ I took my first canvas painting class in a Seniors 50+ community center many, many years prior to my recent launching the beginning of my art and writing career with my website and blog.  I was in my early forties.  I had a desire and a tiny dream I barely dared acknowledge as so many things made it look impossible.  Nonetheless, I took that small open door of opportunity.  If a door of opportunity doesn’t look like what we think is worthy of us and our time, we often can dismiss it.  Check again!  Little doors can lead to bigger connections and higher levels and because the opening can be small or subtle we can easily dismiss them.  I believe these are tests of our listening to the Lord and tests of our humility.  We can easily dismiss seemingly inconsequential people or seemingly small opportunities and find out later they were a door to a next step for us.  Be curious.  Check things out.  Check your pride.  Don’t operate merely from your five senses.  What’s the worse that can happen if you look into that small opportunity?  If it is in line with your desires or offers a provision you need and you have peace from the Lord to pursue it, go for it.  Those occasional snatched opportunities for an art class at the local Community Centers over the years taught me a lot and for minimal cost.  I don’t have an art degree.  I simply took whatever opportunity I could along with reading, research and practice.  So take some little steps.  Set up a file folder or a binder.  Collect a little information here and there.  All seasons eventually fold into new seasons.  Be prepared for your new one.  As the seasons come and go, you will find your blessings, your growth and your level have increased.