Down a small gravel road, more than a mile from the nearest blacktop highway, stands this old house. As one can see, the house looks forlorn – open to the elements as windows and doors are missing.

Sitting abandoned for many years, the paint disappeared long ago. In the light, the old wood siding shows its dull gray coloring from years of aging and exposure to the elements.

Even in winter, the house is almost hidden. It sits lonely in a wooded area – where a yard once had been. There are a couple interesting features about the property . A small ravine is just a few feet from the front door. Also, a much newer house stands in an open area a few hundred yards from this old structure.

I have loved old homes since I was a boy. In fact, my parents raised my sister and me in an old farmhouse.

Near the time when we became teens, our Dad and Mom bought an old Victorian house. It became a labor of love that united us closer as a family over the years as we worked on the property. Many memories were made as we undertook various projects together there. Looking back, I wonder if the house was our parents’ way of keeping me and my sister from getting into too much mischief?!

Thinking about these two houses, I wonder about all of the things that happened within their walls. What were the families like who once treasured these houses as their homes?

Many of us want the newest things such as houses, clothing, vehicles and electronics. We live in a world that values possessions. But, we’re also quick to discard anything that is seen as obsolete or of no value. These old homes beg us to think about what we value – and, what is quickly thrown out and abandoned.

We are the same way with people. As long as someone brings value to us, or they’re fun to be with, than we want them in our lives. Unfortunately, we often don’t give time to those who may be different, or who we don’t believe brings value to our lives.

We become richer when you and I learn to love and have compassion for others – especially those who are not like us. It is often in those relationships where we learn new things about ourselves, and find the true value and joy that come from engaging with others.

Old houses have taught me some important lessons about buildings and relationships – primarily that beauty can be found in both. There’s often so much more value to see – if we will just take the time to discover it.

Have a great day!

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

(This was first published at theroadreport.wordpress.com.)