On being stretched

Today I am fine tuning and preparing for a presentation in the morning. I am always surprised (don't know why) when my life so closely parallels a word I am speaking or writing about. The topic tomorrow is basically the analogy of how we artists stretch a canvas and how we are sometimes stretched by life circumstances. I have come to realize it takes strong support, perfect alignment, and a relaxed attitude to not only handle, but grow from what life throws at us at times. Not unlike a good canvas is it? Strong support: to hold up under the stress of fabric being stretched, the weight of paint or other media. Perfect alignment: of the canvas so that it doesn't sag in the midst of a masterpiece, of the support so that it hangs beautifully on the wall. A relaxed attitude: like a moistened canvas that more easily allows it to be stretched and stapled in place. So, I'm surrendered to the Master Artist's hand as He stretches me to receive more and do more for Him.
This painting is titled "Just Beyond". It is 18 x 36 and is a reminder to me that nothing lasts forever and there is always a clear day just beyond the storm. It retails for $750.