When I was about 11 years old I went out with the family of a friend of mine. I just remember there being my friend, her brother and her Dad. We went to an arboretum of sorts, although I didn’t know it was called that in those days. As our visit came to an end, I ended up walking with the Dad on my own. They were a great family. Happily married, financially secure, beautiful home and seemed to all get on well. At the time, I was very insecure. My parents marriage was about to end and we didn’t do anything as a family any more. I felt extremely poor in comparison to this family. I don’t remember the conversation we had, but I do remember one or two sentences the Dad said to me and all these years later, I still bring them to mind.
He said something to the effect that even though some people may seem to be flourishing more than others, eventually we all get there in the end. The journey to happiness or success or fulfillment may be quicker for some than for others, but even the slow ones get there.
For an insecure 11 year old, it offered what we all need: HOPE.
As the last 40 years have passed by since that conversation, I have seen the truth and wisdom in his words. Possibly he never knew the hope he was offering me. His words contained kindness that told me it was okay for me to be where I was – I may be slow at finding family happiness, but I will get there in the end. His words revealed acceptance. I was not condemned. I need not be ashamed. He didn’t sit me down and explain the concept. He mentioned it as we walked back to the car. I was encouraged and comforted.
Life is a different journey for each and every one of us. Some take leaps and bounds and find their feet quickly. Others take a more circuitous route, struggling to find their gifts and how to put them in practice, but we all get there in the end. We all end up having to do something. Hopefully it includes something helpful and profitable that leads to self worth and happiness.
Mike and I are such good examples of differing journeys when it comes to finding love. He waited until he was 35. I waited only until I was 21. He got there in the end! 😀
Whatever road through life you are on, it’s okay. You’ll get there in the end.
Romans 5:5
“And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
He will give us the direction we need!
#159 of my 1000 thanks is for firefighters! We had a massive fire sweep across nearby mountains yesterday, causing fear and evacuation. The fire fighting team in Cape Town are fantastic and did an amazing job to bring it under control. Very thankful for them. Read the story here.
These are the days!
Keep the smile going.
God Bless you!
In His Grip,
Helga xx 🙂