I like to 'appear' put together and at my best when around others, even when I'm not up to par. As they say, 'Fake it till ya make it.' Well sometimes, you get caught off guard unexpectedly.
Today as we drove into church, I didn't recognize the car in front of us. As we were getting ready to unload, a woman was walking toward us and the church. Even after 25 years, I knew that was my friend from high school, Tabetha. I wanted to greet her, as well as hide. I had my mask on and it was not how I wanted her to recognize and see me after all these years. Of course, Tabetha knew me and was as sweet as ever. It was great to visit with her, after I left my pride outside in the van. It was a humbling experience, but there was greater joy to see my friend from long ago.
Life is a process of changes and it keeps us humble. I am the same girl who drove endless miles cruising Levy in my red Prelude that waved and honked at friends, like Tabetha, every weekend. Now I am with a few more miles with wear and tear to show for it. True friends, like Tabetha, accept you for who you really are, despite the changes we have all been dealt.
Honesty and beauty is on the heart and I am glad your friend recognizes that. Dad
ReplyDeleteI didn't get to know you in your cruisin' days - sounds like you had a lot of fun. But the truth is, if I had to choose between knowing you then and knowing you now, I'd choose now. You are still fun to be around but your walk with the Lord and your ability to understand and encourage others - those are things that I treasure and you don't get those things cruisin through life when we're young and, dare I say it? A bit foolish? (Well, I don't know about you but in my case.. I was a LOT foolish...) Anyway, love the way you've turned out.
ReplyDeleteCathie, what a nice and wise comment and I agree with your comments a lot. Of course as her Mom I enjoyed her then and now. It takes a little more time and more intent listening to get to know Angie now but I think all those who know her agree she is someone worth having as a friend and encourager. Mom
ReplyDeleteIn answer to Bobbie's comment, Angie is more than well worth having as a friend and encourager. She is a pearl of great price, a rare jewel, and a woman to be admired and friend to be treasured. God has molded this woman into a wise, funny, enjoyable, and gracious person--a gift. What else can I say? You are right, and so is Cathie. I don't want you, Angie, to have to go through the trials that you do, but I see God in every situation in your life, how He is molding and building you, how He has made you who you are for the ministry to which He has called you. I thank God for you!
ReplyDeleteAngie, I have read your blog this morning and want to thank you for sharing another part of what makes you. I feel like I can relate to this in a very small way as I remember a few years ago when I was at a low point. A person who had not seen me for a few years was visibly shaken when he first saw me after that interval. It was humbling to me but also I felt sorry for affecting him in that way. It's something all of us must face; some of us earlier than others. My prayer is that you and I can be so convinced of our cozy and intimate relationship with Christ that such thoughts and reactions just make us more thankful for what we have. The Lord bless you today. Joel
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