Print by Charles White"When you are in the final days of your life, what will you want? Will you hug that college degree in the walnut frame? Will you ask to be carried to the garage so you can sit in your car? Will you find comfort in rereading your financial statement? Of course not. What will matter then will be people. If relationships will matter most then, shouldn't they matter most now?"
Max Lucado
When my Mom was in the hospital I realized again how true this is. My Mom has some awesome friends, but that is because she has always gone out of her way to make them. Everyone to her is a potential friend with a story to tell. Each time I went to her room she was out visiting someone else. There is risk involved in this. When you reach out, you never know how you will be recieved. You have to like yourself enough to be okay with the possible rejection. You have to trust God enough to obey when He whispers for you to seek a person out. My Mom has lived her life, sometimes stepping through fear to venture out into the uncharted territory of humanity, and it shows.
They showed up, were there; some of them bearing gifts that came with personal sacrifices of their own. Some waited just outside the door, not wanting to disturb, but praying just the same. Letting her know softly that they were there. When I think of what some of these people have been through in their own lives, it moves me so much that they continue to give and give. They supplied food, presence, support and laughter, especially laughter. These are the things that make someone rich in old age.
Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith. Hebrews 13:7
What a lovely post...so true about the rejection part-I'm not so good at handling that, and have felt it too much-sorta taught me to not be the one who ventures out toward a friendship, but to be the one who just waits... Your mom sounds like a wonderful person!
ReplyDeleteGeese are VERY affectionate-if they are hand tamed as babies. Mine are-but they are one-person animals-just ME! When they were little, our son Micah tamed 'his' goose, Titus, but now she is not too fond of him! I have 3 geese, and all 3 posed for that post-only I would be able to pick each one out, and notice the differences.
~Debra
Debra, I just think all animals are precious. I have always thought geese are so beautiful, love the last photo, wow they all looked like the same one to me...but you are mama so you know the difference. Yes, my Mom is a wonderful person and I am trying to be sociable like her. Thank you for sharing your wonderful farm!
ReplyDeleteFor those who know me, I am not new to the fact your life can change in a flash, BUT. you never get use to it. This time was different, I have people who depend on me and more people in my life that love me. So yes this time has hit hard, By this blog you can tell I have a GREAT prayer Worrior! so all is good.
ReplyDeletejust another bump in the road. Thank you my dear friend for who you are. your sister in Christ!!!!!!