Opportunities

I am thinking about how easily we miss the little signs we are given. How easily we say, "Oh, yeah, I should do something about that" and then we just move along to the next thing.

I am living the outcome of this right now. Heather is laying face-down on the floor (3rd day of this fun position) trying to keep her hip out and her back straight. It isn't a pretty sight for a mom. I would give almost anything to not have her in this position - figuratively as well as physically. I really feel so sad, and so proud all at the same time. Sad, because I remember her telling me that the chairs at school were really hurting her back and legs. So I commented that she should let the school know. I should call and let someone know to buy new chairs with all the tuition I am paying. Opportunity missed. Proud, because she is taking all this pain in the most remarkable stride. Now, remembering that she is a very stubborn girl, this shouldn't surprise me. Yet I know from experiencing other's pain with a bulging disc, she is in incredible pain. Pain that rips my heart apart. Proud, because I watch her seeking the Lord, face down. She has nowhere else to go, and nothing else to do. She isn't a TV addict. She isn't a whiner. She isn't a napper. She's a Berean. She seeks God...daily. And He is so pleased to have her run to Him. Don't get me wrong...she's human. I'm sure she would rather be anywhere but here on the floor.

Opportunities taken. I have the privilege of viewing the most incredible friendships. Ones I never had as a child. Friends have come...just to sit. Just to lay down and nap with her. Just to BE here. It is sooo precious to my heart. They come to talk. To get HER to talk. To drive her down the block for ice cream - 'cause that's as far as her body will allow her to go. To do her exercises with her. To encourage. I am so blessed and awed by real friendship. Don't get me wrong - I have beautiful friendships now. Ones I wouldn't trade for anything in this world. But to watch them as young adults come alongside with godly love and compassion, bringing healing. They don't miss a moment with her. They don't choose to stay home just 'cause they're tired. Heavens No! They sleep here, on the floor, keeping company. I see Jesus in them. I hear the Holy Spirit in their voices. What joy.

I don't want to miss opportunities. I want to take every chance to come alongside. To be an encourager. To know how to really pray and reach the heart of God. To make that a constant, not fleeting, goal. I want to know how to be a good friend. To be a much better mom and wife. To take captive every opportunity to glorify God.