the things that maybe we should reconsider carrying.

I think the story of the things we carried is a very, very good picture of life. All of us carry things with us that we deem necessary. A dead relative, a missed opportunity, a lie told, regret, doubt, insecurities, love. All these things in some way or another weigh us down. They create this invisible burden that can unconsciously consume us. In the story, the author paints a very interesting picture of all the things they carried. And how some of them weighed no more than an ounce, but still weighed much more than any scale could measure. I think we drag our baggage into all of our life experiences. Some of it can be used to help us in time of need (body armor/lessons learned). And some of it can end up hurting us if not kept in check. I think it is important for all of us to think about the things we carry, and whether or not it is really worth the extra weight. In my own life there are many things that weigh me down (fear of failure, random unnecessary insecurities).

After reading and reflecting, now applying should take place.

In all of our lives we need to access the things that are worth carrying into battle. When we approach the front lines of each new trial, what type of equipment is required to conquer each new foe. All the things that reduce our effectiveness should be shed and lade down. Whether it is by burning letters in the fire or forgiving someone who wronged you. We all need to look in the mirror and see the things we carry, which of them improve us, and which of them impede us from running our race effectively.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." (Hebrews 12:1)