Kelly Girl Thinks

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 1:20

As my toothbrush was heading toward my mouth this morning, a torrent of rain hit the bathroom window like I’ve never heard before. We were either in the midst of a hurricane or something was just not quite right. After placing the toothbrush on the sink, I made my way to the window. Slowly lifting the shade, I saw the water pelting the window full force. It wasn’t falling from the sky though; it was coming from below. It was my hubby…on the balcony below the bathroom…with a hose. The water stopped, and I let the blind fall back down.

I might not be the quickest in the brain-working-department that early in the morning, but after a few seconds of it starting up again, it dawned on me that this wasn’t quite normal. My hubby is usually at his desk working around this time, and wasn’t it actually raining outside? What was he doing? Two things popped into my mind. He’s finally lost it would be one, but I just knew it was my second conclusion. He was being romantic!

How did I think this could possibly be a romantic gesture? Thank you for asking. I’ll be glad to share my exciting deduction with you. He was afraid of his own strength. Keep following me here. This was a scene out of a movie. He was the leading actor trying to win the girl. Knowing which room she was in, he needed to get her attention to proclaim for all the world his never-ending love.

Oh, the romance of the balconies. He made it to the balcony because it was the closest he could get to the leading lady. (That would be me.) The power he doesn’t always realize he has made him fear the consequences of the stones hitting the window too hard. He wasn’t looking to break anything for that would ruin the moment, so he went with water to get the attention he so desperately was looking for.

That blind popped open so quickly that I think I must’ve startled him with my face. The water stopped again. Slowly, opening the window, I came up with the most brilliant line of the scene. “What are you doing?”

After blinking a few times, and in an attempt not to wake the neighbors, he whispers, “Washing the bird poop off the window. It’s a mess.” Window shuts and blind goes back down. Well, at least he was being productive. That I appreciate.

Seems to me like expectations can be a dangerous thing. Just because I can create a whole scene in my head, doesn’t mean the same one is running through someone else’s.

Have you ever faced disappointment because someone didn’t play out the scene you had scripted? Well, I’m here to tell you to knock it off. If I take away my scene (that I never even expected when I rolled out of bed this morning) and replace it with reality, it allows me to be thankful that he got that mess cleaned off the window! Let me tell you, it wasn’t a small amount either.

Today, don’t get caught in the dangerous web of expectations. There were some unrealistic expectations of what Jesus was going to do when he came to this earth. Peoples’ thoughts weren’t the reality. His plan didn’t line up with theirs in what they believed He would conquer.  We ended up with an even greater gift by His conquering of death instead of what was expected.  The place our expectations are safe, are in His promises.  Even so, are our expectations really what He said or what we want?

I’m not saying expectations are always bad, but if I would have stuck with that unrealistic expectation that I put on my hubby this morning, things could’ve gotten ugly. This was an easy situation to see the humor in, but not all are that easy. Our expectations need to be flexible and realistic.

I challenge you to be willing to communicate with kindness and honesty. Be open with your expectations and find out the expectations that others have for you. You might be surprised! Expect wonderful things in your life, but don’t get rigid on what that should look like.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8 

So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Luke 24: 33-34

I was a little saddened knowing I needed to get rid of my once beautiful flowers my hubby had gotten me. Unfortunately, letting them sit for as long as they did wasn’t uplifting in any way. When I woke up this morning, I figured that there were two ways I could look at my drooping flowers in my bedroom. I could see the overall wilted bouquet or focus on the couple that were still lively and beautiful. Those still pretty ones were the reason they were all still there.

Why did I accept the overall dismal picture just because there were a few flowers still looking nice? Because I was holding onto something that no longer had the purpose they once had. I let them sit in that vase way longer than I should have. Do you know what happened after tending to the mess? Something of beauty appeared! Allowing the flowers that were alive and well to become independent of the wilted ones brought life back into the picture.

Pondering this lesson, I began wondering how many people were becoming like me and haven’t realized they have messy vases too. There are times when we don’t even recognize the beauty because we’re so caught up on the good that used to be, we’re blinded by what doesn’t serve a purpose any longer. These create messy vases of life.

Another situation that causes problems is when we allow some of our wilted flowers to overtake what was once good. Simply becoming aware of changes and choices in our lives can make the picture clearer. I’m sure we all have areas we could do better and be more aware of changes that need to be made. On the flip side, I’m positive there are things we’re doing well. We just haven’t thought about it to own it!

I love Easter! No matter what’s raging around us, through us, or to us, we know what is constant. The whole reason of Easter is to celebrate the resurrection and eternal life for all who believe. It’s full of light, new life, victory, and hope because there is Someone who doesn’t change. Through the storms of life, we can choose to see the Light and separate Him from the wilted, dead, drooping sadness to allow the joy and peace to roll over us.

After having a reawakening this morning with the flowers, I decided to search out what could use some improvement and what should be celebrated. Making right choices gives us motivation for the difficult that needs dealt with. My recent win was Easter. A trip to be with family was cancelled, and the weather wasn’t looking too promising to enjoy the day outside. We could’ve moped about, but the choice was unintentionally made by all to really enjoy the time together.

I had dreams of grandeur while considering having the family get dressed up to let our minds know that this wasn’t just another day at home. I was thinking of putting on a dress because I remember when I used to get an Easter dress, new shoes, maybe a new necklace, an Easter bonnet, and possibly even gloves. I was feeling nostalgic. Since I felt out that situation earlier, I knew it probably wouldn’t start the day in the best way. I knew God wouldn’t care how we showed up, but couldn’t we please look a little more put together for such a special holiday?

As I threw my hair into a ponytail while making my way out of the bathroom in the morning, I spied an outfit my hubby had set out on the bed. He was keeping it casual but was getting out of his fleece top and into a dressier shirt. I’d take the fishing pants! I quickly ran back into the bathroom and danced a little jig. It wasn’t hopeless! Out my hair came from the ponytail and on went the jeans with a nice top. Now, onto the boys.

My youngest was already awake.  Being concerned with the reception from waking up my oldest a little (or a lot) earlier than he’d like, I braced myself and went full out high-energy on him. “Peter Cottontail” may have been sung and clapping may have ensued, by me of course, as I urged my teenagers to put something on other than sweats. I didn’t hear any growling and may have even heard a couple mumbled, “Happy Easters.” Ooh, it was looking good.

Thinking I’d test their alertness, I starting with my oldest saying, “He is risen!” His response, “Yes He has…” Hmm.

I moved on to my youngest, and he answered without missing a beat, “He is risen, indeed!” Yes!! Correct answer. All those Easter Sundays at church taught him something.

My hubby got it right on the second try. That wasn’t bad!  They were still waking up.

Next, it was time for a scavenger hunt instead of the traditional Easter egg hunt. Laughter ensued as the boys tried to figure out the clues and seeing their reactions when they found another reward. We have so many things to look forward to when things are open again!

Getting breakfast and calling family came next. After sliding the ham into the oven, we gathered to worship together for our own little church service. Then, we died Easter eggs. Everyone did it without complaint. Here’s where a secret comes in. Food. Tease them with the smell of food. Keeps them alert and much more cooperative in seeing things your way. Saturday the smell of Paska worked miracles too.

By the way, those eggs were quite interesting. Our artistic skills might leave a little (or a lot) to be desired. We didn’t quite create those that I admire from Eastern Europe, but they were special because we were creating memories while doing them together.

We decided on an Easter meal that worked for us. Having enjoyed juicy ham, deviled eggs, the comfort of macaroni and cheese, and candied yams, we were only missing collard greens. Maybe another year! A nap was needed after all that.

What could’ve been a day focused on everything that wasn’t right, I’m excited to look back and say that we found those flowers that were lively and beautiful.

How are you tending to your vases of life? Can you clearly see the good that is hiding among the wilted? I challenge you not to except an overall dismal picture. Use what’s in the vase to improve and celebrate. Once you see there is always something good left, share it.

Jesus is a constant good. He is the Light. He is risen! When you catch that glory, spread it to someone else. We can spread Light instead of germs! Be kind. Be thankful. Be determined. Be patient. Have joy! Don’t wait until tomorrow when you can do it today.

Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, “So! You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, come down from the cross and save yourself!” In the same way the chief priests and the teachers of the law mocked him among themselves. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! Let this Messiah, this king of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him. Mark 15:29-32

I’ve been falling asleep every time a sit down the past few days. The list in my brain of things I want to do isn’t getting any shorter when nothing gets deleted and more gets added. Here’s the thing, doesn’t seem to be bothering me too much right now. Why? I’m more concerned about my lack of ability to stay awake. After putting my detective skills to work, I’ve come to a conclusion. If I take medicine, I’ll have some sort of side effects.

Do you see the commercials on the television for prescriptions? Scary stuff! I think I might stick with the original problem if given the choice over their dire consequences and other alternatives. I really do understand that medicine is given if the problem needing dealt with outweighs the concerns for the possible side effects. I’m incredibly thankful for doctors and medicine!

Getting back to my problem. Lately, if I’m not moving, I’m resting my eyes. That was my grandpap’s way of not admitting to dozing off even if he was catching flies while sitting in his chair. You’d think I’d know by now that when something like this coincides with starting to take some sort of medicine, I probably have my answer. Allergy medicine was kicking my butt.

After thinking it over, were my symptoms worse than sleeping my life away? I figure that’s a negative. I even tried cutting it in half. That allowed me to sit here and type, even if the battle is real right now. I’m so sensitive to medicine that even a multi-vitamin needs cut in half. I think I’ll go with some eye drops instead of my hubby turning to stare dreamily into my eyes only to see my eyelids. Hey, it could be happening! I have no proof it isn’t when I’m snoozing away.

What about you? Have you ever tried to fix a problem, but the solution you came up with seemed to be worse than what you originally started with? I’ve often wondered what to do in those situations. I think my youngest son helped me find the answer, and it all had to do with Algebra. Math was never really a problem until this year. He’s quite good at it actually; however, his confidence took a bit of a beating and frustration was at an all-time high.

This year, I’ve seen him conquer his writing phobia brilliantly, completely own science, keep up quite well with his older brother in civics, and I am trying to keep up with him in Bible studies. When he did reach a difficulty in one of his subjects, he took on the challenge and powered through. We were just struggling with Algebra. He was getting more and more confused. We’ve used the same curriculum since starting to homeschooling back when he was in first grade, but not every year is like the others.

I felt like we were coming to a crossroads, and a decision was needed. Were we going to power through because he was passing, or did we need to take a couple steps back in order to move forward? If we stuck with it and just got through this year, would the solution be better than the original problem?

To his disappointment, my conclusion was no. This wasn’t the way to end his school year in math. After some research and advice, I was changing his curriculum. In my opinion, it was more important to have a solid foundation than move on to the next math where he’d probably feel even more lost.

The unpopular decision was made to go back a couple steps even though we were so far into the school year. The new curriculum was ordered. This time, instead of jumping into Algebra, we were going to work through pre-Algebra. I’d be there with him every step of the way…lucky him. What came easily to him, we’d go through quicker. Every problem didn’t need to be completed just to have busy work. We would be working for knowledge and foundation. Quizzes and tests would still being taken so that I knew for sure he understood the problems and recognized that he isn’t bad at math.

We’re going to have this finished by the time school starts up again. He’s determined to have it done a lot sooner. That’s some good motivation! He knows it isn’t about rushing, it’s about growing. We’ll tackle Algebra with a new curriculum next year, and I know that he’ll do fantastic!

I believe that there are different ways to work out problems. It isn’t the same for everyone. For us, the side-effects of plowing through without full understanding were worse than taking a couple steps back. I think this shows character on his part. After getting over the initial disappointment, he’s embracing this. That character will get him far in life. He won’t just get through, he’ll excel! He never quit; he just took a new route.

Do you ever feel like you’ve run into a problem and what you’re trying for isn’t really happening? Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in confusion as to what your prescription might be? I would ask you to think back to when it was clear.

Our tomato and zucchini plants we started were doing amazing, and then…not so much. When were they thriving? Was it when they were in the warmer part of the house? Was it when they got a bit more water? We needed to go back to that point before things turned. It’s better to go back those couple steps than lose those plants out of stubbornness.

I challenge you to remember failure isn’t going back a couple steps, it’s quitting the game. Ever play the game Sorry? The boys always wanted to get their piece out of the starting point, then choose a backwards four. Even though they were having to take a couple steps back, they had a stronger chance of getting to home without several starts and stops along the way. Also, the likelihood of winning the game got higher.

Don’t be caught sleeping and just barely getting by. If you’re going to sleep, do it on purpose! If you’re going to excel, do it with purpose. If you’re going to grow, figure out the right temperature and amount of water needed.

Don’t be afraid to take those couple steps back. Remember to evaluate the side-effects of your prescription. There usually is more than one option.

Viewing things with human eyes, didn’t Jesus seem to take a couple steps back when he came to us as a baby, was tested and tried, and submitted to pain and ridicule? As I think on those things this Holy Week, I’m unbelievably grateful He did. What might seem like going backwards right now, might lead to the biggest fulfillment you could imagine.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35

I live with four males. That would be a hubby, two sons, and one dog. I love it! I really do. Even as I type this with my eyes glazing over, I wouldn’t trade that for anything in the world. I’m completely certain that this is the perfect family for me, but did I mention that I’m surrounded by those of the male species morning, noon, and night?

My dad…oh my poor dad. It was the opposite in our house growing up. There might have been one specific incident that made him run from the dinner table even though he wasn’t quite finished eating. Don’t worry, I think he took his food with him. I’m sure he was running to a secret hiding spot.

What you don’t know is that my home has a very open floor plan. What I love about it is also what can be problematic at times. There is no quiet space! The bathroom is always an option but doesn’t seem like a really good one. Our bedroom is actually a tad bit open too, so it’s out.

Not one to give up, I decided to keep on the mission of finding a secret hiding spot. One morning I was in my closet getting dressed because I hate shutting my blinds since I would miss the gorgeous sunrises. Apparently, my hubby was looking for me. When I opened the closet door and popped out, I scared the living daylights out of him! It might have caused me a tad bit of amusement.

What I realized during this unfortunate, however highly entertaining, event was that I couldn’t hear everything from in there. I was being handed quite a wonderful gift. I found it…my secret hiding spot! The next time I was being searched for, he got smarter and checked in our closet.

It’s possible that if I acted like nothing was out of the ordinary, it wouldn’t seem weird that I was quite content in my new office. If one was to do that, hypothetically speaking of course, they would in their most professional sounding voice and with a smile on their face say, “How may I help you?” Remember, when one acts like everything is perfectly normal, all others will believe it. Or not, but we do try our best in this house.

Yesterday, I had time to make a quick phone call. The boys were in the middle of some schoolwork that didn’t need my immediate attention, and my hubby was already on a phone call for work. I figured that it was safe for me to skip out for a few minutes because they’d just think I was folding clothes or something. They never know when eyes will be on them.  Remember…open floor plan.

Grabbing the phone, I ran into my closet and got comfy. While wanting to make sure everything was fine with my parents, I figured I’d take a few minutes break. I’m not sure if it was the way I was quietly talking or the lack of background noise that made my mom ask if I was in my closet. Thinking that it was getting quite ridiculous that everyone is learning about my secret hiding spot, I forgot I told her when they came to see our new place.

Even though it’s supposed to be my secret spot, I catch my hubby peeking in if I go missing for a few minutes. I was glad he did this time! The next thing I knew, he appeared with hot tea and cookies, telling me to take as long as I wanted because he got science with the boys. Yes, science is all him. I turned that over to him when they got to seventh grade.

It was nice to be getting that break and didn’t even bother me that my quiet time was occurring inside a closet. There are times when we need an escape as individuals, especially if we’re constantly together. We should never feel ashamed of having some down time.

I cherish this season that my boys are still at home. My favorite times are when we’re all together. Also, I’m excited for the future when they choose a life partner. The trust I have in their decisions makes me thrilled to have a couple girls I’ll be able to enjoy coming around so that I’m not so outnumbered! In the meantime, I’m going to make sure I get some quiet every now and then, even though my secret hiding spot isn’t so secret anymore. They respect it…for the most part!

I challenge you to find your own spot that allows you time to regroup, hear yourself think, and have a chance to pray without interruption. I would think that if Jesus found it important, we need to make it a priority. We’re being reminded to take care of ourselves physically, but I want you to remember your whole self today. That includes your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health.

Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:2-3

If there was anyone who taught me to live in the moment and find humor, I would say that was my grandma. She can’t seem to hold in a good laugh when it’s determined to escape. She has one of those personalities that allows herself to see the humor in situations even if they are at her own expense.

I remember sitting in church one day when she decided she needed a mint. It seemed imperative that she get it immediately instead of waiting until it was a bit less quiet. As if she were undercover on a mission, she reached down and pulled her purse up beside her. I admit that she did that quite sneakily, but that stealth went out the window when she started unzipping it.

I was trying to sneak peaks at her without turning my head, and she knew I was if the grin on her face had anything to say. Instead of getting it over with, it was a drawn-out purse opening. It took about fifteen long seconds for the zipper to go from one end to the other. That was making it worse Grandma, not helping!

I realized the mints were in a container that rattled a bit as she pulled it out of her purse. When she tipped that container over, I’m sure everyone in our small church could here them tumbling around as she got one out. She couldn’t hold it any longer, the laughter floated out, even if she tried to muffle it. Of course, those around her couldn’t quite stifle their chuckles either.

Frankly, I don’t think a trip is worth going on if you can’t find some laughter along the way. My first trip to the ocean was with her. When I was about fourteen, I traveled to Florida with several people, including my grandma. We went to Walt Disney World first, and then we went to the ocean, staying in a hotel right on the beach. We had such grand ideas of getting up early in the morning before there were any crowds and having a beautiful, peaceful walk while feeling the sand between our toes.

It was wonderful listening to the waves rolling in. How amazing it felt to have that salty water wash over our feet while we were walking. This was vacation! Then it happened. Grandma is a wee bit short. The next wave that rolled in came to above her knees and hit her with a little more force than she expected. Down she went onto the sand. We found out quickly that she was just fine as her laughter rang out. It was contagious and soon we were all laughing so hard we could barely catch our breath. Nobody was helping her up because everyone was laughing too much, including her!

Once we finally got ourselves under control, we headed back to the hotel with Grandma sopping wet. She changed clothes and got the brilliant idea to let them dry outside on the balcony. Do you know where I’m going with this? Yes, a wind came in and picked up her unmentionables. They did a dance in the air to the balcony below us. They were still in the process of being dried, but not where they belonged! We had to try to figure out what room it was to retrieve them.

I’m not even sure if she got them back, but I am sure someone got quite a surprise. Do you know that I don’t remember much about actually being at that beach besides the vivid picture of our excitement that morning? That tells me what’s important in life. It’s those memories of laughter and adventures that are what vacations are all about. Not just vacations though, it’s our day-to-day life experiences.

What does it mean to find good humor in a situation? One answer would be to live in the moment, not take yourself too seriously, and to let your laughter ring out, sharing your exuberance with those around you. What it isn’t is laughing at the expense of others.

My grandma learned how precious life is early on. She experienced heartache, loss, and trials, but she still finds humor in situations and doesn’t stifle her laughter. That can brighten any home, visit, or adventure. It isn’t good for us to be stuck in serious situations without finding some humor within them.

I’m sure that after her son died and my grandpa suffered a massive heart attack right before I was born (to just name a couple), there were many reasons why she could’ve been surrounded by a cloud of gloom.  My grandpa was given only a short while to live. He showed them! He doubled the time and saw me grow up. Could laughter have helped with that?

I can’t imagine what we would’ve missed out on if she lost her laugh because of her circumstances. No, Grandma and Grandpa embraced the fact it was going to happen to all of us one day and lived their lives to the fullest while still with us.

Would their granddaughter have those releases of laughter during hard times if they didn’t show her the example of giving God glory in the midst of it? Would I have learned how necessary to my health that is? It shows that I can take a break from the hard times because I trust God to hand my cares over to Him. I believe God designed us for laughter. Might I even say that he provides comic relief at times?

I challenge you to find a praise of laughter within you. Let your face light up and joy burst forth! Explode with light as you let go of your worries and live in the moment.  If you’re having trouble, put on some music and start dancing.  As you “float” by a mirror, that’ll do it!

They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Mark 8:22-25

I just opened a new document to type, but I’m having some trouble concentrating. There’s sneezing going on in the background that isn’t stopping. This is getting ridiculous! I think the count is up to twenty. With all the sickness in the world right now, nobody wants to think about it being in their home. I’ve never heard such a thing before as what’s going on; he’s still sneezing! I have to ask, “Are you alright?”

Let me stop right there. It’s so easy for the imagination to start working. He went out yesterday after staying in for almost a week. He kept his distance, but was it enough? This line of thinking can get out of hand pretty quickly. I have to say that we’re careful here and do what we can to stay healthy, but we try not to stress about what’s out of our hands. When I take a step back, I can recognize he hasn’t been sick all day, and who sneezes now thirty times in a row even if they are sick?

Finally, I’m getting my answer. He got cayenne pepper up his nose. Interesting…I’m not even asking how. We’ll just go with it because these are my weird happenings today. This is the second time dealing directly with my hubby. The third indirectly involved him. Two things are the same in all my scenarios…my hubby and me. Which one could the craziness be coming from?

My head is still spinning from our conversation we had an hour ago. You need to understand that we used to have a huge lawn to mow but since we moved, it’s tiny. I mean miniscule! We’ve had quite a few problems with the lawn mowers we’ve previously owned, but we won’t get into how they gave us trouble. I don’t think it was user error, but I won’t swear to that. Anyhow, he was telling me how his new lawn mower came today.

It was exciting to see him so enthusiastic about this new mower. However, it just seemed weird to me that all my questions about it were met with it being a real mower. I know we’ve all been hanging out together a whole lot, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I understand him all the time. What does he believe I’m picturing…a fake one? Then, he told me how quiet this real one was. I had to stop him right then. Frustrated, I exclaimed, “Of course it’s real!”

At this point I might have mumbled, “I would hope you wouldn’t have gotten one that bubbles come out of when you push it!” That would be the only fake ones I know about. After tilting his head to the side while studying me, he bursts out laughing. Apparently, there was some confusion going on here. I quickly learned that he wasn’t meaning real, he was saying reel. English can be so weird. He got a manual push reel rotary lawn mower. I still think he could’ve explained that a bit better.

The other situation that happened today was totally on me. I was walking towards the bed when I saw something on my nightstand. Yes, I talked about being cold that one time today, but what was my hubby thinking? Did he really bring in his boot dryer with the glove attachment to put on my nightstand? I suppose it was thoughtful to give me warm gloves, but it was completely strange. Not only was that just a bizarre thing to do, it’s spring now. I told myself how I needed to appreciate his thoughtfulness.

When I got closer, I lost it! My first thought was to never mention it to anybody, but I eventually had to admit it to my hubby. I simply couldn’t see. There wasn’t anything he put on the nightstand; it was what I put there. When he made that trip out yesterday, I gave him a list of a few things we needed. He was so sweet that he brought me flowers from the grocery store too! That’s what had me fooled. I wasn’t used to seeing it there and didn’t have my glasses on because I’d been reading. I obviously can’t see much of anything but outlines without them!

Are your communication wires getting crossed recently? Is it possible that you aren’t seeing as clearly as you think you are? Is there some blurriness happening to you? When we spend many hours closely together, we need to allow one another the benefit of the doubt. If you’re alone, that can be difficult too. Stay in contact with people and remember when you do, the same rules apply.

Just like the blind man in Mark 8, we may need to give things a second chance to see clearer. This is also needed to understand better and gain more wisdom in the confusion of life. Instead of frustration, I challenge everyone to extend grace. Take that time to give the benefit of the doubt. This isn’t just for those in your house either. Many times, this shows Jesus better than preaching does.

Be kind to one another and do something to brighten someone’s day! Don’t jump to conclusions, give second chances to understand, assume the best, or even if you do have to run into the grocery store, grab a bouquet of flowers like my hubby did yesterday. It made me smile, and no, he didn’t do anything wrong!

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. Philippians 1:20

“Say what?” my hubby questioned. Even though it was early in our marriage, I’d been with my high school sweetheart long enough that what came out of my mouth and the situations I found myself in rarely surprised him anymore. My announcement created a perplexed expression without full understanding. Trying again, since I was quite clear the first time, I simply repeated what I was about to do so he could wrap his mind around my new adventure.

This wasn’t a complex issue. The phone call was for me to ride to a veterinarian in a nearby town. I was going along with my cousin’s teenage son because it was a bad time due to milking for anyone else to make the trip. They wanted someone who would listen to what the vet had to say after x-rays were taken and report back to them. He would drive and I’d sit in the back of the van making sure everything was under control. Why was this so hard for my hubby to comprehend? Usually the vet would go to the barn, but we were going to the vet…simple.

Oh, I think I forgot to mention to you that the patient was a calf. That apparently was what muddled my hubby’s mind. We loaded the little Guernsey calf with the big eyes into the back of the van and off we went. While monitoring the temperature in the van, we had an enjoyable ride. It was quite unlike some of the drives I experienced with my children as babies! It was quiet and there weren’t any accidents in the vehicle. Could you imagine if we were pulled over by the police?

After getting to our destination, I stayed outside while he ran in to let them know we arrived. I didn’t realize how exciting it would be for them in the office! Apparently, they didn’t get many calves coming into the practice. We went straight to the back while the employees took turns getting a look at the patient. Calves are extremely cute! The x-rays were taken, and we waited for the results. They weren’t what we hoped for, but it was necessary to do what we could for that little one.

I know some farms don’t do everything possible for their animals, but this one did. Each one had an identity, a name. That dairy family knew who each one was as they entered the barn. They knew every personality and quirk. The happiness in being there for births, and the sadness at the end of life is still felt deeply. There may be many animals there, but each one is important.

Thinking about what’s happening in the world today had me reminiscing about my adventure in the past. There are difficult and sad times, but it’s the adventures in life that we’ll miss out on if we’re always focused on the what-ifs or the problems we face. We celebrate, we mourn, but we don’t stop living. We do what we can do because every life is so very important. Then, we live. Each and every day, we truly live.

Why do things happen as they do? We just got finished studying Job. It wasn’t a book of the Bible that I wanted to refer to before our study, but I learned something. It was a book about trust when we don’t understand why. God isn’t fickle about his love. Each one of us has an identity, a name. Each one of us is important. Sometimes, situations aren’t exactly what we would’ve hoped for or planned. I’m truly sorry when life doesn’t seem fair. In Job, God showed the amazing things that we can’t imitate or understand. When we can’t understand, surely, we can trust.

I’m going to issue what might be the biggest challenge yet. Trust in God. Trust in his promises and work of salvation. Stay grounded in His glory. When you don’t understand the why, keep trusting. Be sure of where you’re going and truly live every day of your life. Allow the situations you find yourself in to be your next adventure. Find the lighthearted through the difficult…I did call it a challenge. I didn’t say it would be easy, but it is possible! You got this. “Yes, officer; it’s a farm animal…in a mini van…trust me, we got this.”

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

Fear is running rampant right now. It’s understandable that people are facing anxiety as dire warnings are being broadcasted, schools are being closed, and activities are being cancelled. Nobody wants to see people sick or worry about their jobs and what all the closures mean. The more we find ourselves immersed in the focus of the unknown to come, the more out of control and scared we feel.

My family is trying to keep informed but carry on, and I’m trying to see the positive or humor in these situations. For example, we’ve only recently moved from several acres of woods to an area where we have no oak trees. People, pine needles will not do if we run out of toilet paper! It’s sad because when the boys have a few minutes during school to work independently, they automatically tell me that I have time for a quick potty break. Road trips are fun with me…I can’t help it! This lack could breed creativity.

Also, I figure we can go a while without running to the grocery store. We have fish and crabs right outside our door. Well, kind of. I’m sure they’re out there but they’ve yet to land on my table. That doesn’t mean it’s an impossibility. We were laughing the other night because my youngest got excited and bought a kayak before the rest of us did. We figure there’s that to help us get out and fish better. The funny part, we don’t have a paddle yet! Also, realized today that I don’t have very much hard butter left, but fear not, we have plenty of popcorn. Better for our health I suppose.

We’re still receiving deliveries, and I was trying to be considerate of the driver today. I heard the truck pull up, and my son headed out the door to meet him like normal. Oops, that was something we probably should’ve talked about earlier because it got a little interesting. I tore off running through the house as I heard them make their greetings. I love when we connect with people, but social distancing y’all! He was still by his truck, and I gave a yell for my son to come back in the house. He thought I lost my mind. The driver came to the bottom of the steps with a knowing look while I sheepishly shrug my shoulders as I explain how we want to keep it safe for them by not making them get too close to us. The driver grins and asks if I want him to just put it on the step. Yep, works for me! Interesting times.

As you can see, we aren’t dealing with some of the struggles that so many are going through. Our perspective on the situation might be unique because this isn’t all that different than what’s normal for us. My hubby works from home already; he just isn’t travelling. We homeschool so nothing changes with that, right? Maybe it does a little.

My boys are much older and hear their friends talking about being off school, and some of them aren’t continuing to learn at home. If they can get out of not having school, why would you choose to be in school? Simply because it’s a privilege to receive an education boys. You’ll be better prepared when you do what others are unwilling to. When you have every opportunity to learn, do it! This might not be a popular belief with teenagers, but as parents, it’s our duty to help them understand. If not understand, we need to be the enforcers! Can I get a cape…a badge?

I want to encourage parents who homeschool to keep on keeping on. Sure, if your spouse isn’t normally home, get creative while having some good quality time as a family to forward your children’s education. This encouragement doesn’t stop for those who’ve always homeschooled. If your children are now home, but have never homeschooled, don’t allow them to fall behind. I urge you to do what you can.

If teachers are now online, make this time a positive learning experience. If not, become the teacher. Make it clear they’re still going to get an education. Try to establish a schedule, take advantage of websites like Khan Academy (they can study for SAT tests there too), read, take the opportunity to teach life skills. Let those teenagers help with taxes and balance the checkbook. Have fun by planning trips! They can figure out budgets, food, lodging, directions, gas mileage. Also, be sure to look into the places you could visit that are historic. Those websites have many educational tools on them. Jamestown Settlement in Virginia is even having learning opportunities on top of their normal information.

What I want to make clear is, sometimes it’s necessary to be a lighthouse during the storm. Stand strong even when you don’t seem appreciated! When the complaining starts or the bad attitudes overwhelm, which is a good likelihood sometime along the way, stand firm while it blows all around you. That isn’t as easy as it sounds! We can’t get all dramatic on our end when they have their issues. We simply need to be stable even when we don’t feel appreciated or they don’t see things our way. I was just watching a movie that said, “Lighthouses aren’t there to draw attention to themselves, they’re just here to shine.” Start shining!

Shine through the storms. This isn’t just for parents either. Nope, I don’t care if you’re in third grade or a senior in high school. You might need to be the one standing like a lighthouse among your family, friends, or community.

How can you stand strong? Do your part to be better, rise higher, and shine like a lighthouse no matter your age. Be the difference. Be the calm in the storm. Stand tall! Find humor in difficult situations…find your oak tree or paddle. Give others six feet while sending out your light with a calm, confident, genuine smile. Don’t hide your light, even if you’re staying at home!

She wants to come out and play.
Where is the turtle on this sunshiny day?

She’s in a shell so protective and safe.
Why does she feel like a little waif?

The hope is there to be seen.
If she stays inside, what can she glean?

The hope is there to be felt.
Why is she afraid of what she’ll be dealt?

If she never does come out,
Will she ever know what God’s love is all about?

A little courage is all it’ll take.
Is it still too much for it to awake?

There’s a chance that all her thoughts could be right.
Will she try, just to end up in a fight?

If she stays hidden from all,
Will she keep herself from a fall?

To even think of taking that chance makes her ill.
Is it too big of a hill?

It’s so depressing living in the darkness all alone.
Does she just need someone to set the tone?

There’s a hand that comes from above.
Will she feel it reach out with never-ending love?

If she makes an appearance for all to see,
Will she finally be free?

Maybe what she’s used to isn’t the best.
Is she really getting much needed rest?

She hears exciting things as they pass by.
Is the talk in her head all a lie?

A negative voice she hears has been her guide.
Is it really the fallen angel by her side?

There’s a small, quiet voice she also hears.
Is there more to this life than fear?

That voice says trust me.
Can she possibly agree?

To change how she’s been living is hard.
How can she not stay on guard?

She thinks the voice is telling her to experience growth.
Is it possible to be in and out both?

Something deep inside says to go.
Is that hope and courage beginning to flow?

There’s still something there reminding her there’s danger.
Even so, the calm voice asked, “Do you know the story of a babe in the manger?”

She remembers hearing something from the past.
So why does she think she deserves to be last?

Stronger than ever the loud voice has to disagree.
Yet, isn’t she tired of having to flee?

Into her self-made prison she stayed.
Doesn’t she know who she obeyed?

How fearful of always being too slow was a reason she hid.
Did she know it affected everything she did?

There was someone who was willing to buy her for a price.
Think again, is the angel of darkness really being nice?

A greater lesson has not been taught.
Did she know the life given for her would be for naught?

The battle was raging inside.
Was she going to believe in the One who died?

It wasn’t that she didn’t believe.
Could she think it was her that couldn’t achieve?

If she trusted enough to step out in faith to run the race,
Would she finally see it’s all about grace?

She’d let the unknown control her for way too long.
Wasn’t that the trick of the devil making her feel she didn’t belong?

The more her eyes turned toward the light,
She asked, “Have I been missing out because of fright?”

She would now question the lies that had been cast.
Was it really the fear in her that amassed?

There were great things planned for her life.
Could it be why there’s been so much strife?

As she boldly believed in what had been laid,
Was it time to understand what really made her afraid?

It wasn’t really her fear embedded so deep.
Did she understand it was the devil’s fear of her taking that leap?

She had strength that came from above.
Does she realize the symbol of a dove?

It defines the presence of God.
Isn’t it the Trinity we should laud?

The turtle saw everything in an amazing light,
Don’t you think it’s time for her to take flight?

She was fed a lie that skewed her perception.
After learning it all, did she deserve the resurrection?

Instead of answering that it’s a gift,
She asked herself, “Will I ever be able to cross the rift?”

The time had come, and even with doubts, she prayed and stepped.
Wasn’t it time for only God’s truth to be kept?

A turtle is great when that’s God’s plan.
Wasn’t he the one who even created man?

He wants us to be exactly who He formed.
Since the devil knew he’d lost, don’t you think he fumed and stormed?

The lies were showing, and the turtle looked quite regal.
Don’t you see that the turtle was really an eagle?

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound.
That hiding turtle can no longer be found!

After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters–one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. Matthew 17:1-6

Have you ever had the chicken pox? Since I was a little one a wee bit before 1995, no vaccinations were given to me for keeping them away. In fact, some parents would be quite eager to have their child around others who were dealing with this itchy plight, hoping to get them over with. It always seemed to be worse if we got them when we were older. Unfortunately, it wasn’t always in our parents’ control since the most contagious phase was two to three days before any spots were even seen. Once we experienced them, we usually developed an immunity. I noticed it was common to get them around the time we were in kindergarten.

I remember my mom calling up the neighbor and trying to diagnose the rash that was developing on my body. Oh no! Was I going to have a hot potato put onto my ear again? Nope, wasn’t an ear infection. Their verdict…chicken pox. Oh, the sweet, cooling relief of cotton balls and that pink bottle of calamine lotion. What a great way to get a good count of all those spots! The potato wasn’t needed, but the mittens came out. Yes, I was in mittens during the night to keep from scratching those itchy things while I slept.

Would the itching ever stop? The excitement of counting the spots and novelty of having what other kids already experienced wore off quickly. There was hope though! Those blisters would turn into scabs, and the itching would lessen. What a rough, itchy transition phase. The scabs would eventually heal with the whole ordeal being nothing but a memory that I could pull out to tell my kids how easy their lives are nowadays. I really don’t believe that though because it may not be chicken pox, but there’s always something that we’re going through, no matter the age.

As we transition through things as individuals and as families, I’m reminded that there are different phases just like when we have chicken pox. There comes a time when things are really uncomfortable and not rainbows and unicorns as I’d hope. I can figuratively become quite itchy! They can be terribly rough times, leaving us wondering if the best is behind us. It could be with a job, in faith, physically, financially, mentally, or even with our children. How easy it would be to throw our hands up and say that we tried, but it just wasn’t good enough.  We become blind to that sliver of sunshine that has been put in our path to keep us going because we stopped looking.

If you happen to be going through a particularly tough time today, I’d like to ask you one question. Could it be possible that you’re going through a transition phase? Sure, it’s a time of misery, and you’re about as uncomfortable as you can get, but is it possible what you’re going through can be used as part of your arsenal for immunity to future attacks that come along? Could it be that if you never dealt with it until you were older, the situation could be even worse?

I challenge you to see things in a new light at this very moment. This is your wake-up call to recognize the healing and wisdom that is being poured into you right now. This is your sliver of sunshine. Welcome to your Transition Phase!