"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
Psalm 139:14
Last night, H and I went to Walmart for some very last minute project supplies. I didn't even take two seconds to look at what she was wearing...until we were in the middle of the store. I couldn't help but chuckle as I realized she had on her school capris, and boots with just a peek of her knees showing. She looked silly, which is totally fine. We all look silly a lot of times!!!
I brought it to her attention that she should probably stray away from wearing boots and capris in the future, then I quickly wanted to take back my statement in fear that she may become self conscious for the remainder of our shopping trip. Boy, was I wrong.
This awkward 8 (almost 9) year old little girl had just taught me a lesson that I have failed to learn...or better yet, practice in my 26 years.
"Who cares? I like my boots, I like my pants, I don't see a problem...if someone else does, who cares? THEY are not wearing it, I am and I'm fine with it."
Proud Mommy moment! :)
So many times, we worry about what other people think. We let other people's opinions limit our choices and our capabilities. H was right! Who cares!?!
Through your entire life, people will point, stare, comment, belittle and pick you apart. It's just the way our cruel world has become. NEVER let it limit you, or what you can accomplish. God doesn't make mistakes. He made you, his masterpiece...curly hair, too many freckles to count, monkey toes and all!!! He has a plan. He knows you greater than the mislead people that try to break you!
Every morning from this point on, I will wake up, greet the morning and say "bring it on world!" Sometimes it's tough to remember how great you are in the middle of chaos, but if you ever start to forget:
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart"
Jeremiah 1:5
Thank you my beautiful, wise, awkward 8 (almost 9 ;)) year old for reminding me of a valuable lesson that I failed to pick up on many years ago.
I love you!
One day, I will wake up when I want to, not when someone else is hungry. I will not have to fight for the remote when I want to watch something. I will jam in my car to Maroon 5, instead of Justin Bieber. I will not trip on a toy, slip and stump my toe in the dark on the way to the bathroom. I will long to hear the sweet laughter that once made me wish for a moment of peace and quiet....and I will definitely not be fishing stacking cups out of dog dishes.
So, tonight- I am going to dry these bowls off, giggle when I stump my toe on the way to the bathroom, sit while they sleep soundly and thank God that tomorrow I get to hear the giggles and cries too....and record each memory for the days that will come far too soon when they are all I have left of the sweet innocence that once filled our home.
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As adults, we spend a lot of time looking back, wondering about the paths we took and the what ifs. For a long time, I struggled with many of my "rear view" decisions. Now, when I look in my rear view mirror- all I see are 3 beautiful faces. No doubt, no regret, no wrestling what ifs....just 3 beautiful faces.
In life, we face a lot of things that lead us to make decisions, that then lead us down a path. Sometimes it's good and full of sunny days, happiness and laughter, but eventually we all come across a path that is gloomy and filled with moments that make us feel ready to give up, like nothing is working.
When you get to your path that tries to tear you down and defeat you, remember how loved you are, by me and Dad, but even more by God.
Though it's hard at that moment, maybe even for much longer than you anticipate- always remember that every path eventually comes to an end. It may be miles, or just around the corner. If you give up- you will never know how close you were.
One day- instead of looking in your rear view mirror and seeing struggles and heartache- you will glance into it and you won't be able to control your smile...because all you will see are rear view beauties. Whether they be a relationship, your self image that you've battled with, your career, your education...or in my case, 3 beautiful faces.
Pray hard, love without limits (don't forget to love yourself) and seize each moment. Before you know it- your rear view mirror will be one of your favorite views.
