From The Most Unexpected Places ...

I received a text this weekend from a friend; a new friend really, someone with whom I never shared social circles with but whose way of embracing challenges has been life-giving for me. A portion of the text read, "I believe in you."

As I work through my Pastoral Care course at Iliff, I am reminded that though we have journeyed beyond some of the challenges in our lives, and the wounds have healed, the scars remain as a constant reminder. For me, this text was the water I have thirsted for. I believe in the human connection and that we are all intertwined. It is in our differences that we are tempted with judgement. Social narratives are embedded in us and blur the lens with which we see others. When we succumb to that judgement we then evoke a reaction from another person which is in and of itself, often painful.

As I have been reflecting upon the blessings I have received over the past couple of months I began to see that intrinsic human connection - a thin, brittle, thread woven by conversation, a memory shared, an encouraging word, an act of kindness, even a simple smile. When you start receiving blessings from places you never imagined you can't help but pause for a moment, embrace life and feel connected to the Divine. 

"I've known you were destined for great things since our friendship began 36 years ago. I look forward to seeing you achieve your calling and will be here to offer support when the task in front of you seems impossible. Remember God never closes a door without opening another. You just had to be brave enough to walk through it. I am so proud of you for taking that step."

This was an email attached to a financial gift from a childhood friend whom I had the privilege of knowing since 1979 with whom I was fortunate enough to reconnect with 36 years later. Just as a gift comes in all shapes and sizes, so too does a blessing. Count your blessings. Write them down. Give thanks for them. Receive them gracefully. And then when the dust settles, use them to bless someone else.

Peace be with you!
Cheryl