A letter for my new niece :)

January 24, 2008

Dear Katelyn,

Well, you’re finally here. Happy birthday! I would love to tell you that I am more excited about you being here than anyone else, but I think your parents may have me beat…by just a little bit! I was with them just moments after they first found out about you. The three of us just cried and hugged, dreaming of when this day would come…and now, the waiting is over! It’s a great story, but I should let your parents tell you. I’m not going to steal their thunder this early on in the game.
As you get older and start asking to see your baby pictures, you won’t see any of your Aunt Michelle. The problem is…I am in graduate school in Texas, which is about 16 hours away from where you are. (That is about how long it would take if you watched your favorite movie ten times in a row.) So even though you won’t see my face, hopefully, this letter will show you that my heart was in Knoxville on your first official birthday.
I’m not gonna lie to you, Lil Kate. I was pretty disappointed when you didn’t show up three days ago. I really wanted us to be birthday twins. Your Uncle James, on the other hand, wishes you would have held off a few days since his birthday is January 28. We are getting married in 120 days, so apparently, God is even using your birth to try and teach us compromise. (You’ll meet God soon, and you will love Him, I promise. Your parents will introduce you as soon as they can.)
Speaking of your parents – wow, you have one amazing mom. I should know. She had great practice being a mom on me, her little sister. She was always holding my hand when I crossed the street, even though Gigi already had me on one side. She was the one who gave me advice the first time I liked a boy. (Don’t say gross – it will happen to you one day too!) And she was also the one who consoled me when I found out he liked someone else. I was like her dolls, except I was better, of course. Oh, and in case she tries to blame the fact that she can’t french braid on me…I can’t help it. Your mom has gotten much more gentle in her hair styling since she first learned how to French braid.
She was more than my second “mom” though. Your mom is also my best friend. As soon as you learn to talk, you need to start bugging your parents to have another baby. If you take after your mom in personality as much as you look like her, you are going to be one amazing big sister, Katelyn. My next niece/nephew is one lucky kid.
Oh, and while I’m thinking about it. There will probably come a time when your mom gets on your nerves. You’ll think that she doesn’t know anything and that she can’t do anything right. But just remember that you heard it here first. Your mom loves you more than anyone else on this earth, and she wants what is best for you. Even if you don’t understand her, trust her. No matter how hard that is. About the time you are ready to finish high school, something inside of you will just click, and you will know that she was on your team the whole time, and you will be a better woman…because of her. Your Gigi did this for your mom and me, and your mom will do the same for you. You’ll find that as you get even older, you will hear her advice echo in your mind each time you are faced with a decision.
And let me just tell you one of the best things about being a girl – DADDY! Hands down. Your G-Daddy is one of God’s greatest gifts in my life. To this day, I still think he is the best, strongest man in the world (equal to your Uncle James, of course.) He’ll be the one who shows you why following God is the smartest decision you can ever make. You see, God is your Heavenly Father, which means, he’s just like your daddy…except better. I know that’s hard to imagine, but it’s true. Some little girls don’t have good examples of what a Heavenly Father would be like, but that’s not the case for you. He will shower you with unconditional love, spoil you as much as he can, (Try not to abuse that), and he will set the standard for the man you will marry someday. That guy has big shoes to fill, but we are already praying that God will shape him to be the spiritual leader that you need.
I know I’ve talked a lot about God, and you probably don’t even remember Him right now. It’s okay. It’s been a big day, coming out of your mom’s womb and everything. You’ve been preoccupied with other things. But God was the man who created you. He formed you in His image, and you are fearfully and wonderfully made. As he molded your shape and taught you how to smile, He developed a plan for your life. You have a bright and beautiful future ahead of you, sweet Katelyn. You simply have to trust Him with all of your heart and not rely on your own strength. Then, He will direct your paths and work for your good, since you are called for His purpose.
He’s put some of His best in your path. Your mom has an incredible servant’s heart (that she learned from Gigi), and your dad works harder than anyone I know, and he will provide you with everything you will ever need. Your G-Daddy is the closest living, breathing example of Christ that you will ever encounter. I pray daily that by the time you are old enough to read this letter that your Aunt Michelle and Uncle James will be closer to you in distance…but I promise that you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday.
I haven’t actually laid eyes on you yet. I haven’t held you in my arms. But I can already tell you that I love you more than I ever thought possible. I promise that no matter how far away I live, if you need me, I’ll be there as soon as I can get to you. Since I can’t be there physically to change your diapers or tickle your little toes, I’m going to do the next best thing. I’m going to pray for you.
Sweet Heavenly Father, I submit the life of my precious Katelyn to you. God, I pray that you would give her everything her heart desires. Use her to change the world for you. Send your angels to gather around her and protect her. Make her heart yearn to learn Your Word, and help her to be able to recite your teaching to resist the devil’s temptations. Use the sun’s warmth to remind her family’s love. Every time she sees a sunset or a mountain range, have her reflect on Your power. Don’t let anything stand in the way between her relationship with You. Amen.
We’ll get to have fun soon, I promise. So you just grow up sweet and strong, and know that your Aunt Michelle loves you. And bout that birthday twin thing, three days is close enough to still be twins, don’t you think? ☺

Love always in Him,
Aunt Michelle

Colossians 3:23

Want to try this.....with a net?

I came across this picture today, and it made me say the words, "NO WAY" out loud. My friend who was nearby, came over to my laptop to see what my overreaction was all about. I said, "You would never EVER get me to do that." She looked at me like I was crazy. "Well, duh," she replied. "Who would expect you to do that?"

Me. Crazy little perfectinist, over-achieving me. That's it. I got to thinking about this picture more and more. Eventually, I wondered if there was a net anywhere beneath the tightrope walker. If there was a net, how would that change my reaction to the picture? Here's where my imagination took me...

Some Random Stranger: Hey, Michelle. Want to get across?
Me: No, thanks. Tempting, but I'd rather not die today. Wedding in a few months...pretty excited about that. You understand, I'm sure.
Stranger: Come on, there's a net. You know you can make it to the other side when there's a net beneath you.
Me: So you just want me to get across...no matter how I get there?
Stranger: Yeah. Whatever it takes to get to the other side.

Boldly, I grabbed the rope with my hands to check the stability. Not exactly ground material, if you know what I'm saying. Making a final decision of faith, I place my other hand on the rope and leap from the building...gripping the rope with both hands. Casually, I allowed myself to drop to the net below. Clinging to the net, I crawled on my hands and knees to get to the other side. Satisfied, I stood up. I made it to the other side...without the stress of trying to balance something I wasn't capable of doing (and without a hair out of place, might I add!)

If you're confused, stay with me for a few more paragraphs and let me explain. Any other Type A Perfectionist/Control Freaks out there? Girl, I'm with you. Been there. Done that. If there's a support group somewhere, I should be president. I really struggle with expecting myself to be perfect...which is something that I know is impossible. As ridiculous as it would sound for me to expect myself to be able to walk a tightrope without training or experience, it is every bit as pointless to expect myself to be perfect.

But here's where this gets good. We have a net. His name is Jesus. He wants you to cling to him, and he will help you get across the obstacles that you face in life. He knows that you don't know how to handle everything that comes your way, but He does. He is aware that you aren't capable in your own strength and knowledge to accomplish what He can, but He wants you use you to bring glory to Him.

So when you come across the next obstacle in your life, don't focus on the impossible task in front of you. Cling to Jesus, and He will guide you through unharmed.

A Degree in Social Progression

Normally, I read Women's Health Magazine from cover to cover. The stories are interesting, the models look like real women, and the information varies from nutrition, exercise, women's medical reports, etc. So my subscription came in the mail, and I started my routine of reading the contents. As I got to the end, I got to the article of a summary of 2007. When I got to the "bottoms" of 2007, or the negative points for women, I saw my school highlighted, as offering a degree in social regression, by offering a degree in homemaking. Pretty upset with the bias of the magazine, I wrote a letter to the editor. So in the likely event that this letter won't make it into the printed magazine, I thought I would take the liberty to post it here.

Dear Editor,

Normally, I am extremely pleased with the contents of Women’s Health. The articles are usually informative and entertaining, as well as unbiased and clearly researched. However, I was highly disappointed in your article displaying the homemaking degree at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary as a degree in social regression. First, your magazine regularly features celebrity moms who are praised for putting their careers on hold to raise their children. How is offering this degree any different? Is it foolish to study law if you aim to be a lawyer? Should you show up to be a doctor without attending medical school? The women who study in this program are seeking to learn ways to bring their children up grounded in biblical truth and maintain a healthy home environment. Obviously, with mothers like Britney Spears, society isn't doing a great job at training moms to run a household. We can't assume that all women have great mothers who teach them these lessons as they are growing up. Also, I attend Southwestern, but I'm not in the homemaking degree program. I am in my second year of the Masters of Divinity program, composed of 102 hours in advanced theological studies, as well as intensive study of Greek and Hebrew. Within the Masters of Divinity, a concentration is offered in Women’s Studies to examine issues like feminist hermeneutics and women in missions. There are seminaries that do not allow women to participate in advanced biblical studies, but Southwestern does. In fact, Dorothy Patterson, wife of Southwestern’s president, has two doctoral degrees in theology. Terri Stovall, the dean of Women’s Programs, has a PhD in education. Laura Zettler, the director of the homemaking program, has her doctorate in human environmental sciences. Southwestern is far from social regression for women. Women have the flexibility to study here, no matter what God’s call is for their life. If that's not progressive, I'm not sure what is.

It's Not About Us

Pause for a moment, and reflect on the Great Commission. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age (Matt 28:19-20). Many could argue from these words of Jesus that telling others about God is a believer’s duty. However, I think believers miss the mindset that Jesus wanted us to have if we simply think of his teachings as rules and regulations on our lives. Learning from Christ’s example, one would have to draw the conclusion that His ultimate goal was to get believers to grasp the concept life is not worth living unless your only purpose is to glorify God with all that you are and all that you do. Jesus didn’t keep numbers of those he baptized or how many followed Him in each city. He concerned Himself with drawing near to His Father and following His will.
Jesus knew that some would harden their hearts and would not repent. He knew that some things he said would be offensive, even to religious leaders. However, He was not concerned with how others perceived Him, because He knew that He was living for a greater purpose. His life and death glorified God, and that was all that mattered.
Given that God longs for all of creation to worship Him, missions exists because there are places where the name of God is not praised. Missions is ultimately not about the lost, but about the One who saves the lost. This concept is not meant to belittle the importance of saving a lost person from sin, but rather, it is to magnify the importance of worshipping God through our existence. The life of Jesus models this concept, as everything He did was not for His own gain, but for His Father’s sake. Jesus gave everything, even His own life, to bring God glory, even though the price was high.
This is a concept that may be difficult for some to accept, especially a new believer. This is why salvation must be followed by the renewing of your mind. Following Christ means adopting a new mindset for life. The apostle Paul wrote, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Rom 12:1-2). Likewise, Ezekiel 36:26-27 teaches that God will give us a new heart to replace our former ways.
Mankind is born selfish, so everything about living for God goes against our fleshly tendencies. We have nothing to gain from leading others to Christ, as salvation is a free gift from God. God has everything to gain, since there will be more of His creation that will worship Him. That being said, missions cannot stop with simply telling someone about Jesus. Missions must be a continual lifetime process of living your life as worship and helping others to do the same. There are people who sit in church pews all across America who do not glorify God with their lives. If you simply share Christ’s story with someone, but neglect to provide them a way to grow in their relationship with the Lord, they may or may not worship Him.
Believers in Christ must begin to recognize that worship is not a one-time act and missions is not a two-week trip. Worship and missions are both lifestyle and mindset changes that are necessary following salvation. While God changes our heart, the new believer must surrender to Him to develop the mindset of Christ. While Piper coined the phrase that worship is the fuel and goal of missions, the apostle Paul conveyed the same idea when he wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal 2:20).

The List

The List
By: Michelle (soon-to-be) Myers







Princess Michelle went about every day,
Making time to create, read, and play..
She had wonderful parents to guide her way,
Who promised her God would never lead her astray.
At a young age, her wise father asked her to obey:
“You need a prince, and for him, you must pray.”

And so for once, young Michelle did as she was told,
And imagined how the rest of her life would unfold.
She took out some paper and started a list,
Of qualities in that man who somewhere did exist.
After a few minutes of thought and debate,
She began to pray for her future mate.

“God, make him nice, funny, and sweet.
Make him really strong, except in racing; make him easy to beat.
Help him to love dogs, ice cream, and You.
Make his words kind, gentle, and true.”

Michelle got older and started junior high,
She never had a boyfriend, and her friends wondered why.
“They’re not him,” she told them, yet she couldn’t convince,
That waiting was worth it, to someday have her prince.
One day she sat down and examined her list,
And realized there were a few traits she had missed.

“God, make him smart, and anything but shy,
Have him know to just hold me if I start to cry.
From up there, can you see anyone who’s a lot like my dad?
You know what a great example of a Christian man I’ve had.”

Time went on, and Michelle began to date,
Even though something inside her still wanted to wait.
They weren’t quite frogs, but nothing more than a friend.
When it came to the list, none could contend.
As high school ended, Michelle again reached for pen,
It was time to add more to that list again.

“God, help him to respect me and all my dreams,
And you know me and sports; can we please like the same teams?
He doesn’t have to be rich, I know love can’t be bought,
And I know this is shallow…but can you please make him hot?

So college started, and new boys came around,
But the boy on her list, she never found.
She gave up on the dating scene and focused on her,
The next three years were quite a blur.

Michelle finally gave in and believed all the lies,
Her prince didn’t exist; they were all just guys.
She drifted further away from the girl she’d always been,
And decided life would be better if she was just thin.

She began to feel unlovable, ugly, and plain,
Her family begged her to eat and for her body to sustain,
But Michelle wouldn’t listen,
She knew being skinny would return her glisten.

Then one day, God opened her eyes,
And He assured her that her husband list was quite wise.
“Obey Me, and follow My plan,”
God said, “And in My time, you will meet your man.”

God’s voice continued to speak after her spiritual rebirth,
“Go to Southwestern Seminary, the one in Fort Worth.”
Michelle decided to take that leap of faith and commit,
She had learned with God, it was best to submit.
She opened her desk to begin packing her supplies,
And as she came across her list, she had a few things to revise.

“God, help him to forgive me for all that I’ve done,
Make his life passion be serving Your Son.
Bring him to me either at school or at church,
I’m so tired of games, and I don’t want to search.
Please don’t let him think any girls are prettier than me,
And I know I’m headed to Texas, but please make him from Tennessee!”

Three weeks later, while on her new job,
Michelle saw a boy that by seminary standards, was a slob.
In an LSU t-shirt, shorts, and a hat,
Her urge to look a third time, she had to combat.

He finally approached her, and he did it all wrong,
But in no time at all, she found where her prince had been all along.
A gorgeous athlete from west Tennessee,
Who chased Jesus alone, by his own decree.

Their first date, they both knew right then,
They were going to be married; they just didn’t know when.
Months later, out of curiosity’s sake,
Michelle pulled out her list to see if she’d made a mistake.

As she carefully read over it, a tear fell down her cheek,
How could she have found someone so unique?
He met every quality, exceeding every one,
Michelle suddenly realized, her list was almost done.

“God, thank You for giving me this man by my side.
Please give me all that I need to be his bride.
Help him to always challenge me and tell me when I’m wrong,
Help me to let my guard down and not try to be so strong.

Thank you for making him so genuine and real,
Being in his arms every time is surreal.
He’s not everything I asked for, he’s better and he’s more,
Life is sure to never be a bore.”

“God, even though he is gorgeous, that’s not what stands out,
I see how much he loves You and serves You so devout,
I’ve always wondered how I just knew,
That he was the one, I just knew it was true.
But now I see that when I look at him, I recognize the view,
Because each time I’m around him, it’s like I’m with You.”

So Michelle smiled to herself and completed her list,
And as folded it shut, the cover she kissed.
For the cover, once empty, now boldly proclaims,
“The Characteristics I Want in My Husband: James.”

For James
Christmas 2007
I love you.

For James
Merry Christmas, baby.
I love you.

Whatever It Takes, Lord

Challenge yourself today. Read through this statement first. After you've read it, decide if you can commit to it. Don't just read a bunch of words to God that you don't really mean. This is a big commitment, but if you read it, pray it, and DO IT, it will radically change your life.

Today I am stepping across the line. I'm tired of waffling, and I'm finished with wavering. I've made my choice; the verdict is in; and my decision is irrevocable. I'm going God's way. There's no turning back now!
I will live the rest of my life serving God's purposes with God's people on God's planet for God's glory. I will use my life to celebrate his presence, cultivate his character, participate in his family, demonstrate his love, and communicate his Word.
Since my past has been forgiven, and I have a purpose for living and a home awaiting in heaven, I refuse to waste any more time or energy on shallow living, petty thinking, trivial talking, thoughtless doing, useless regretting, hurtful resenting, or faithless worrying. Instead I will magnify God, grow to maturity, serve in ministry, and fulfill my mission in the membership of his family.
Because this life is preparation for the next, I will value worship over wealth, "we" over "me," character over comfort, service over status, and people over possessions, position, and pleasures. I know what matters most, and I'll give it all I've got. I'll do the best I can with what I have for Jesus Christ today.
I won't be captivated by culture, manipulated by critics, motivated by praise, frustrated by problems, debilitated by temptation, or intimidated by the devil. I'll keep running my race with my eyes on the goal, not the sidelines or those running by me. When times get tough, and I get tired, I won't back up, back off, back down, back out, or backslide. I'll just keep moving forward by God's grace. I'm Spirit-led, purpose-driven and mission-focused, so I cannot be bought, I will not be compromised, and I shall not quit until I finish the race.
I'm a trophy of God's amazing grace, so I will be gracious to everyone, grateful for everyday, and generous with everything that God entrusts to me.
To my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I say: However, whenever, wherever, and whatever you ask me to do, my answer in advance is yes! Wherever you lead and whatever the cost, I'm ready. Anytime. Anywhere. Anyway. Whatever it takes Lord; whatever it takes! I want to be used by you in such a way, that on that final day I'll hear you say, "Well done, thou good and faithful one. Come on in, and let the eternal party begin!”
-- Taken from Saddleback Church's Angel Stadium Declaration by Pastor Rick Warren, April 14, 2005--

My Personal Vow to God's Word

It's pretty rare to have a final that you're anxious to complete. However, I got an assignment in seminary that was cool enough to make it to the blog - without having to be edited. (A RARE occurance, I assure you!) But my professor assigned our class to write vows that describe our personal bond to Scripture. So, here you go :)

SCRIPTURE IS:

IMPARTIAL: (2 Timothy 4:3) First, I vow to take responsibility for the presuppositions that I bring to the text, acknowledging that my experience, background, and personal belief system will all effect how I will interpret Scripture. While presuppositions cannot be avoided, I vow to be self-critical enough to recognize that my own personal theories may not be accurate and dedicated enough to read Scripture as objectively as possible, remembering the warnings in Scripture of relying too heavily on my own desires rather than what His Word says.
INSPIRED: (2 Timothy 3:16) Second, I believe God has provided two main sources of revelation of who He is. He reveals Himself through His written Word in Scripture, and He best reveals Himself through the personal example of His Son, Jesus Christ, whom we come to know through the Word. Therefore, the Bible is irreplaceable as how God reveals Himself to the world.
INFINITE: (Psalm 119:160) Third, I regard Scripture as my final Word. The Bible is set apart from any other written manuscript because the text results from dual authorship; there is a human author and a divine author. Therefore, Scripture has authority not only as a historical account from an author who was present at the time, but Scripture exists as the holy Word of God. Therefore, I vow to always use Scripture as the ultimate authority.
INERRANT: (John 17:17) Fourth, I commit that His Word is truth. Therefore, I believe that Scripture contains no error, no discrepancy, and no confusion, but it is the complete and absolute truth.
INFALLIBLE: (Jeremiah 29:11) Fifth, I believe God has a plan and a purpose for each of His children who are seeking after Him. We seek Him by digging into His Word to learn more about Him. I vow to follow His Word, trusting that His teachings will never lead me astray.
INVARIABLE: (Isaiah 40:8) Sixth, I hold to the fact that God’s Word is timeless, making it as relevant to me today as it was when it was written thousands of years ago. Scripture can be applied across time and across cultures; it has no boundaries or limitations.
INDIVISIBLE: (John 10:35) Seventh, I vow to view Scripture in its whole entirely, not just picking and choosing verses I like to gather meaning. I commit to search for the common purpose within His Word to reconcile me to Him and grow spiritually.

In summary, I vow to respect His Word and remain in awe of His presence while daily meditating in His Word. I commit to pray for continued passion to hide His Word in my heart that I might not sin against Him. As I seek Him, I submit to Him in total faith to use His Word as a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:11; 105)

Do You Trust Me? Part 7

My mom took the job, and she was amazing. No one would have ever known that she was pretty much making it up as she went. Other hospitals began inquiring who my mom was and what she was doing to get such great results. She was considered to be an expert in her field by many. She loved her job, and it was so much fun to see her be so happy.
She touched so many lives through the course of her illness, and her impact rolled over into her job at the Life Center. She continues to be an amazing encourager, listener, and motivator.
I’m grown now, and I’m getting married in just a few months. It won’t be long before I’ll be starting a family of my own.
I’ve learned a lot from my mom throughout the years, but if I had to limit myself to just one lesson I would want to take with me, it’s this:
Do you trust me? Yes.

*************************************************************************************

My mom has now been cancer free for ten years! Praise the Lord!

Do You Trust Me? Part 6

Life went on for the next few months, and it was pretty normal. I finished my first year of middle school, and Melody finished her first year of high school. Before we knew it, it was almost time for the New York trip and my mom’s surgery.
I argued with my parents everyday, and I begged for them to let me stay home with my mom. It was all wasted breath. However, a few weeks before the trip, my dad told me that he had arranged for us to leave New York early so we could be home the day after my mom’s surgery when she came home from the hospital.
The trip was incredible, and I had an amazing time. I saw the Statue of Liberty, stood between the two towers of the World Trade Center, shopped in Time Square, saw the Today Show Live, and saw Beauty and the Beast on Time Square. I wished for my mom to be there at almost every turn, but I knew that she really wanted me to be on this trip.
Whenever we prayed before a meal or before the choir sang, someone always voiced my mom’s name in their prayer, so I knew we were lifting her up the best way we could.
When we got back to the hotel every night, I would call my mom and excitedly tell her about my day. I took six rolls of film during the trip, and I told her I couldn’t wait to show her every detail.
The day of my mom’s surgery came, and my dad and I headed to the airport to fly home. My sister was pretty much a basketcase when we left, but it was for the best for her to stay with her friends and keep her mind off of everything that was going on at home.
I don’t remember much about the flight home. I just knew that it took us a lot longer to drive a 60 passenger van than it did to take a flight home!
My mom was well taken care of while we were gone. Friends from church had come by during the day to keep her company, and someone new brought her dinner every night. My mom admitted that she actually liked the peace, quiet, and rest before her surgery.
The surgery itself was picture perfect. The doctors went ahead and removed a few of her lymph nodes, just in case the cancer had spread. When they completed the biopsy of the additional tissue they removed, it was benign. The cancer had not spread at all. With one surgery, she was cancer free.
I felt guilty at first, especially around Katie, because my family’s situation turned out much better than the ending she and her family were dealt. Katie never seemed upset though. She was just glad my mom was okay.
About a week after my mom’s surgery, I hugged my mom carefully and said, “I’m so glad that’s over,” I said.
She smiled. “It’s not over, Michelle. God’s still going to use this. I just don’t think he’s done yet.”
I dismissed her words without another thought. In my mind, it was over, and I was happy about it!


Once again, my mom was right. About a month after her surgery when she returned to the hospital for a follow-up visit, one of her favorite doctors told her they needed to talk to her. At first, my mom was a little nervous, thinking that perhaps they hadn’t gotten it all after all.
However, it turned out that the doctor wanted to talk to her about becoming the manager of the Baptist Cancer Institute Life Center associated with the hospital. This was a new education center they were trying to start, giving cancer patients and their families a place to go for support, encouragement, and information. The doctors were so impressed with the way my mom handled herself throughout her own battle with the disease, they knew she was the perfect fit for the job.
Even though she didn’t have any business experience. Even though she had never been a manager of anything. Even though she didn’t have a medical background. Even though all she had ever done in her adult life was teach music to elementary school students.
On paper, she was anything but qualified. Through building a relationship with her, though, the board of directors at the hospital didn’t want anyone else for the position. God really was up to something.

Do You Trust Me? Part 5

I began to feel proud as I watched my mom. She was very fortunate not to have to have any chemotherapy or radiation. In fact, most people who were around us at the grocery store or at the mall would not have any way to know that my mom was fighting a deadly illness.
Still, I knew some days were harder on her than others. Together, she and my dad had decided that she would go ahead and have a mastectomy, just to make sure that they got rid of all of the cancerous tissue. She was not too prideful to admit that this was a hard decision since women are always a little self-conscious of our bodies anyway. And she did get tired more often. She used to go like the Energizer Bunny, but now, she had to limit her activity.
One of my mom’s doctors called cancer “the disease of nice people.” He said that while they were some obvious exceptions, most cancer patients he dealt with were all previously sick with the “yes disease.” They’re the room mom for both of their kid’s classrooms. They cook dinner every night and keep the house tidy. They stay up late helping one child finish their homework and get up early the next morning to make cupcakes for their husband’s office. They volunteer to hand out water bottles at the charity 5K races…and the list continues. That description completely fit my mom.
That doctor told my mom that if she allowed herself to be over-committed while she had cancer that she didn’t value her live or her family’s lives. That got her attention, and my mom definitely slowed her pace down.
Every once in a while, it was nice to come home and see my mom sitting on the couch with my dad. Even though I knew it was because of doctor’s orders, I had never really paid attention to how much my mom did for everyone else and how she always did without. She never complained about it once.
The doctors were thrilled with her progress, and they all looked forward to her visits. They talked about how much fun she was to treat because she was always so appreciative and so inquisitive. My mom wanted to learn everything she could about the illness, the healing process, and anything else she could absorb from their knowledge.
I hadn’t allowed one negative thought to cross my mind since that day in my dad’s office at church. I didn’t avoid people at church. In fact, following the example of my mom, I looked for times when I could encourage someone who was hurting.
In April, they scheduled my mom’s surgery. The only convenient time for everyone was the same week that our whole family was supposed to be on a choir mission trip with the church in New York City. I had dreamed of going to New York my whole life, so I was immediately crushed at my dream trip being canceled. I didn’t want to be selfish though, so I refused to act upset.
Later that day, as I was helping my mom cook dinner, she asked, “What musical do you think your dad will get you all tickets to see?”
I looked up. “Huh?” I asked. “When?”
“In New York,” my mom said. “On Broadway.”
I tried not to show my disappointment. “Oh, I don’t know what they’ll go see. I’m sure whatever he picks will be great.”
My mom looked confused. “What they’ll go see? You’re going to be there, sweetie.”
I shook my head. “No way. You’re getting surgery that week. There’s no way I’m going. I mean, I know dad has to go because he’s leading the trip. And Melody’s in the choir, so she needs to be there too. But I’m staying with you.”
My mom stopped what she was doing and grabbed both of my hands. “Michelle, I’m going to be fine. I want you to go to New York. You’ve been talking about this trip for months.”
“New York’s always going to be there, Mom,” I argued. “I can go another time. I want to be here with you.”
My mom leaned back and folded her arms across her chest. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to pull the Mom card,” she said, casually.
I rolled my eyes, playfully. I always accuse my mom of playing the “Mom” card to get what she wants sometimes. It basically means she’s the mom, and I’m the child. What she says goes, and I can just deal with it. “This is no time for the Mom card,” I said. “You know how stubborn I am, and I refuse to leave you at home by yourself that week.”
“Well, you had to get all of that stubbornness from someone, didn’t you?” my mom grinned. “And you’re going on that trip, Michelle. End of story.”
“We’ll see,” I said, and I returned back to stirring the vegetables on the stove. “I’ll ask Dad what he thinks when he gets home.”

Do You Trust Me? Part 4

“Melody! Michelle! It’s time to leave!” my mom’s chipper voice rang throughout the house. “Come on, you know your dad doesn’t like it when we’re late to church!”
I took one final look in the mirror before I bounded down the stairs. Melody was right behind me.
“Did you eat breakfast?” my mom asked. “I made those muffins you like yesterday, and there are still some left.”
“I already got one,” I said. My voice was monotone.
“Are you okay this morning, sweetie?” my mom asked. She smiled. “It’s beautiful outside.”
How can she be so happy? Doesn’t she know she’s dying? Doesn’t she know that she’s going to leave me to grow up without a mom?
Every day wasn’t always like this. Sometimes, I could go throughout my day as normal and only think about my mom’s cancer when I prayed for her. Other days were harder. Church days seemed the hardest. Everyone at church wanted to hug me, to tell me that everything was going to be fine, and to tell me that they were praying for me and that God was in control of this situation.
Sure, God’s in control. That’s easy for them to say.
We got into the car, and my mom started sharing with us what her Sunday School lesson was over. When she finished, she simply said, “Isn’t God amazing? I mean, no matter what I’m going through, the lesson always seems to be exactly what I need to hear.”
How does she have that much faith? I just didn’t get it. She had been to the same funerals that I had. She knew what this disease was capable of.
At church, I tried to avoid the right people – pretty much everyone forty and older, my family’s closest friends, and all of the church staff. My friends knew I didn’t like to talk about it, and they were pretty good distractions.
I was leaving the sanctuary when I heard a little voice behind me. “Hey Chelle!” I turned around to see Taylor Few, the seven-year-old grandson of Mrs. Carol, bounding down the stairs of the balcony. Taylor ran up and hugged me. “We’ve been praying for your family at dinner,” he told me. He looked proud of himself.
“Thanks, Tay,” I said. “We’re still keeping your family in our prayers too. How is everyone?”
“Papaw gets pretty sad sometimes. And I do too. But then I just think about how much fun she has to be having in heaven, you know?” Taylor was swinging on the railing of the stairs leading to the balcony. “She wasn’t having fun down here anymore, but I bet she’s happy now.”
I wanted his innocence. I wished I had faith like his. I just knew too many facts. I didn’t know how to reply to Taylor, so I was relieved when he opened his mouth again. “Do you think she’s watching me all the time?”
I laughed a little to prevent myself from crying. “I bet she is. And I think right now, she would probably want you to stop swinging on the railing so you don’t fall and hurt yourself.”
He smiled at me and placed both feet on the ground. “I bet you’re right.” He looked up and said, “Sorry, Nana.” With that, he took off running to his parents on the other side of the room. I saw Todd and Cindy start to walk towards me, so I waved at them and then walked out the door before they could get too close to start a conversation.
As soon as I walked out the door, I was greeted by two ladies I didn’t know. This wasn’t unusual. In a church the size of mine, it was easy for people to know me since my dad was on staff while I had no clue who they were. I tried to smile and walk on politely, but one of them grabbed me by the arm.
“You know, your mother is amazing,” she said. “Absolutely amazing,”
Just what I want to hear.
I smiled, weakly. “Thanks. I think so,” I said.
“She just has this joy in her that is so contagious. I feel better just being around her,” she went on.
The woman next to her nodded in agreement. “I know. I just think about how I would react if I had cancer. I would be bitter, angry, confused, and hurt. Your mom is just so poised and so positive. It’s really inspiring.”
Hmm. Bitter. Angry. Confused. Hurt. That sounds about right. That sounds pretty normal.
“Just tell her that we love her,” the first woman added. “And we’re praying for a speedy recovery.”
I thanked them for their kind words, and quickly ducked into my dad’s office. Safe at last.
My dad was sitting at his desk, shuffling some music around. “Hi, kiddo,” he greeted me when he looked up.
”Hey,” I said, slumping into one of the meeting chairs.
“How was your Sunday School class this morning?” he asked, putting down the papers he was looking over.
I shrugged. “Pretty good, I guess. We prayed for Mom.”
“Prayer is always a good thing,” my dad said. “You can never have too much of it. In fact, its times like these that can really bring us to our knees. I’ve prayed more for our family over the past few weeks than I have in my life. I’m just sad that it took your mom getting sick for me to start praying like I should have been all along.
Great. Not him too! Didn’t anyone understand why I was so scared?
My dad noticed my silence and said, “You’re not mad at God for this, are you?”
That was all I needed. “Of course I’m mad!” I admitted, folding my arms across my chest. “Why aren’t you?”
“I don’t see how being mad about this is going to help your mom get any better,” my dad said, reasonably. “The doctors think her cancer is going to be completely curable with just one surgery, and she has some of the best doctors in the country. She gets tired pretty easy, but all in all, your mom feels pretty normal. Considering the circumstances, we’re pretty blessed,” he said, coming over to sit in the chair next to me.
He was right. I knew he was right. He was always right. If it didn’t come in handy so often, I would be annoyed at how right he was.
“Why don’t you just try to be positive with us, okay?” he suggested. “Did you know that there’s actually been research done that shows having a positive mental attitude throughout cancer has a better survival rate?”
I perked up. “Really?”
“Really,” my dad smiled at me, revealing the one dimple on his right cheek. “Come on, complete me,” he said.
I laughed. I have one dimple on my left cheek, so I’ve always told my dad that my smile completes his.
“Atta girl,” he said. “Let’s get home and make some lunch for Mom and Melody. What do you think?”
I hugged my dad, and we headed for the door. I walked out of church feeling better than I had in a while.

Do You Trust Me? Part 3

The next few days were pretty rough. I am normally a daddy’s girl, but I avoided him whenever possible. I can’t lie to my dad, so it was just better for me to not be around him. As for my sister, I knew how to get her to leave me alone. I just had to hurt her feelings a few times, and she wouldn’t open her mouth around me. I don’t remember what I said, but I do remember the hurt look on her face. She waited for me to apologize, but I never said a word.
God didn’t ask me again if I trusted Him. If He did, I wasn’t listening. And as for my mom, she would give me a sympathetic smile whenever we crossed paths. Sometimes, she would just reach forward and hug me. I never pushed her away, but I never welcomed her embrace either. It was too painful.
Thursday night, we sat down to eat dinner as a family. This wasn’t completely out of the ordinary, but something was different, and everyone knew it. As we silently poured drinks and passed food around the table, I knew what was coming.
Finally, my dad broke the silence. He looked tired, but he still had a smile on his face. “Girls, we need to talk to you about something.”
My eyes filled up with tears. Don’t say it, I thought.
“Your mom had a doctor’s appointment earlier this week, and she’s gotten back some news today. Your mom has breast cancer,” my dad said, swallowing to hold back his emotions.
Melody’s hands flew over her mouth, and she burst into tears. “What?” she asked. “Why? How?”
My dad held up one hand, as he saw my mom beginning to tear up as well. “Now, here’s the good news. Her doctor said she’s discovered it in the very early stages, and it’s completely treatable. There are a few options with treatments and surgeries, so we’ll be looking into that over the next few days.”
My mom smiled at us, “Girls, God is going to use this. I’m going to be okay,” she said. “So you girls just keep your chin up, okay?”
I nodded, still not looking at anyone at the table. How could you do this to us, God? My dad’s a minister. My mom teaches Sunday School. I won state in Bible Drill for six years in a row. And Melody even goes to a Christian school! This shouldn’t be happening. Not to us.
Melody continued sobbing, and my mom reached over to rub her arm softly as she cried. “Melody, please don’t cry,” my mom pleaded, trying to console my sister. She looked up at me, and we locked eyes. “Michelle,” she said, trailing off. I looked away.
My dad continued. “What we need from you girls is to keep your bickering to a minimum. The doctor explained to us how stress can impact cancer negatively, and you know how it upsets your mom when you girls fight. Can you do that for us?”
Melody and I looked at each other and nodded. In that moment, I knew Melody forgave me. Somehow, she just understood.
My mom changed the subject, and asked Melody about school. They carried on small talk, while I stayed pretty quiet. I pushed the food around on my plate with my fork to make it look like I was eating, but I didn’t have an appetite. After about twenty minutes, I excused myself to go take a bath.
I remember how I thought the running water would mask the noise of my tears, and I cried again for what seemed like the hundredth time in a row. As I got out of the shower, Melody called to me from her room. “After you get dressed for bed, come in here, okay?”
Ten minutes later, I walked into my sister’s room. She was curled up on her bed, snuggled into covers and holding her giant Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal for comfort. When I got close to her, I saw that she was crying.
“Did you really know the whole time?” she asked me.
I nodded. “I was with her when she found it,” I said quietly.
“Is that why you’ve been so mean the past couple of days?” she asked.
I nodded again. “Sorry,” I managed to say. I felt tears trying to well up in my eyes again, but I must have used all the ones I had already because no tears ever fell.
“Do you want to sleep in here tonight?” she asked, opening up the covers on the other side of her bed.
“Yeah,” I admitted. “I do.” And with that, I crawled into bed next to my sister and fell asleep to the sound of her sniffles.

Do You Trust Me? Part 2

Three weeks later, my mom and I walked back into the house from Carol’s funeral. Carol Few was an older lady in my church who had been like a grandmother to Melody and me. She had never been sick, and then, all of the sudden…ovarian cancer. Again.
I hated cancer – the disease, the word, everything. It ended lives and devastated families, and it did it quickly.
“Go ahead and change your clothes,” my mom said, as we headed up the stairs. “Put on something comfortable, and we can put a movie on while I finish ironing your dad’s shirts for the week.”
My eyes lit up. I still hadn’t practiced piano for the day, and my mom so rarely let me skip days. Before she could change her mind, I darted to my room and changed into my t-shirt and Nike pants as fast as I could.
I went to my bathroom and put my hair in a ponytail. As I ran the brush through my hair, I heard the voice again. Michelle, do you trust Me?
Frustrated, I dropped the brush on the counter, and the clang of the metal hitting the marble surface echoed. God, why do You keep asking me that? You know that I trust You!
This time, there was no reply. If there was, I didn’t hear it because I was interrupted by my mom’s voice. “Michelle?” she called from her bedroom. “Are you okay?”
I flipped the light switch on the bathroom, thankful for an interruption. I darted down the familiar hallway of the upstairs and made a flying leap onto my parents’ bed as I had done a million times before. “I’m fine, Mom. I just….” my voice trailed off.
My mom was standing in her closet, half dressed, and her face was as white as a ghost. She put her hand over a chest and shut her eyes, as if she was struggling to breathe.
“Mommy?” I asked, sitting up to move towards her. “Mommy, what’s wrong?”
She shook her head and turned around to face her clothes.
“Mom,” I said again, with a firmer tone. “What is it?”
She tuned around to face me, and I saw there were tears in her eyes. “There is a lump on my breast.”
My heart literally sank. I felt it drop. I wanted to throw up. I wanted to scream. Instead, I simply said, “What?” in utter disbelief.
“I have a lump on my breast,” my mom repeated. “I felt it when I was changing my shirt.”
At that moment, I buried my face in my mom’s pillow. No, God, no. Not me. Not my mom. Not my family.
My mom came to sit down on the bed next to me, and I leaned onto her. She either let me cry for a minute, or she was silent, trying to gather her own composure.
She pulled me away from her. “Michelle, look at me,” she said.
Reluctantly, I opened my eyes. At the sight of my mom, I immediately had to look away. I couldn’t handle seeing her right now.
“It’s going to be fine,” she told me. “I’m going to be okay. In fact, it’s probably nothing. I’ll just go to the doctor to get everything checked out just to be safe, and then, everything will go back to normal.”
“Normal,” I repeated. “Yeah.” I still couldn’t look at her.
“I’ll call first thing on Monday morning,” my mom promised. “But Michelle…” she paused. “Michelle, look at me for a minute, okay?”
I looked up, my eyes once again swelling with tears. “Don’t tell your Dad about this, okay? Or Melody. I don’t want them to worry about this unless…I just don’t want them to worry about it, okay? Promise me.”
I nodded, taking the chance to look away again.
“Michelle, promise me. You have to.”
“I promise,” I finally whispered.
“Good,” she said, forcing a smile and cheerfulness into her tone. “Now, go wash your face, and then let’s get the movie night started.”
Lifeless, I trailed to the bathroom and splashed water on my face.
Do you trust me?
I became angry, and I lowered my face to the sink, hoping the rushing water from the faucet would prevent the flow of tear from my eyes.
Do I trust You? The One who took away Katie’s mom? The One who made Mr. Few cry today?
For the first time in my life, I had a different answer. I don’t know if I trust You anymore, God. And if You take my mom from me, I definitely don’t know if I can trust You.
I gathered my composure and went downstairs. My mom was already down there, and I saw one of our favorite chick flicks was already playing on the TV. The ironing board was nowhere in sight, and I didn’t say anything. Silently, I curled up next to my mom on the couch, wrapped both of my arms around her arm, and rested my head on her shoulder. My eyes never left the TV screen, but I didn’t pay attention to the movie at all.
As I sat there, I silently prayed, Please, God. Don’t take my mom. I’m not ready. I’ll do whatever you want. Just don’t take my Mommy away from me. Please.

Do You Trust Me? Part 1

This is a true story of my life - an account of how God used my mom being diagnosed with cancer to positively impact my whole family. He gives and takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord!


I folded my arms across my chest as we pulled out of Katie’s driveway. How could a house that used to be so full of love feel so empty? What kind of a friend was I that my best friend was hurting, and I had no words to comfort her?
My mom patted my leg with her hand before she put both hands on the steering wheel. “She’s going to be okay, Michelle.”
I nodded, fighting back tears. I knew that if I tried to speak, I was going to cry again. There had been enough crying lately.
About a year ago, Katie’s mom had been diagnosed with melanoma, a type of cancer with a low-survival rate. This was her second battle with the disease, but the outcome was different this time. She didn’t win this round.
Over the past three years, Katie had become a part of my family, and likewise, I became a part of hers. Weekends were spent at one of our two houses, and we even argued with one another’s siblings.
The past year had been tough. We spent a lot more time at my house than we spent with her family. Her mom spent a lot of time either in bed or in the hospital, and we never wanted to disturb her. Katie didn’t talk about it much. She tried to pretend like it wasn’t really happening. I wanted to be there for her, but I didn’t want to upset her either. I knew we would have to talk about it eventually. As ready as I thought I was, I was completely unprepared in the moment.
She’s only twelve, God. How is she supposed to make it through high school without a mom? Now she only has a dad and a big brother. Who will help her decide what outfit to wear on her first date? Who’s going to understand why it’s necessary to have a closet simply devoted to shoes?
That morning, Katie’s dad, Bob, called my mom, to let our family know that Katie’s mom had died in the middle of the night. I cried for hours after my parents sat me down to tell me the news. I wanted to call her, but I didn’t know what to say.
As I cried, my mom worked in the kitchen, preparing dinner for Katie’s family. When it was ready, she tapped on my door to see if I wanted to go with her to drop off the meal. I didn’t really want to, but I nodded in agreement anyway.
I didn’t say much in the car. Was it fair that I was coming to her house with my mom? Katie didn’t have one. I couldn’t imagine being in her position. Seriously, what would I do without my mom? I mean, my dad is great, but he wouldn’t be the same man without my mom either. Everything would change.
I could feel something was different as we rounded the familiar corner of Katie's neighborhood. The sight of a home I had been inside so many times was now giving me a knot in my stomach that I had never felt before. I didn’t want to face my best friend.
My mom rang the doorbell, and I took a deep breath. “Be strong for Katie, Michelle,” were my mom’s final instructions before Bob opened the door.
He looked tired and heartbroken, yet somewhat relieved and grateful at the same time. “Thank you so much, Mary Ruth,” he said. “Come on in.”
My mom walked through the door and motioned for me to follow. I took a deep breath and walked into the house. Bob called to Katie to let her know we were there, and I saw her appear from the hallway of her bedroom.
As always, Katie tried to act normal. We prided ourselves in not being like other girls. We knew about sports. We’d rather be outside. We weren’t overly emotional. And we certainly didn’t cry. I could tell that she hadn’t slept much, and I knew she had to be upset, but she made it obvious that she didn’t want to show it.
I wanted to cry. I wanted to throw my arms around Katie and tell her that it was okay to shed a few tears…or a lot. She had an excuse not to be tough.
“My mom made macaroni and cheese,” is what I said, forcing a smile out of her.
“Your favorite,” Katie said, forcing fake enthusiasm. We both knew that I hated every form of cheese with a passion – the sight, the smell, the texture, everything.
“Yeah,” I agreed, being sarcastic right back.
At that moment, we both looked at each other, and I couldn’t help it. I stopped pretending, and I hugged her. “I’m so sorry, Kate,” I said.
She didn’t say anything. She just stood there and hugged me, and I eventually felt her tears fall down my back. While Katie and I silently hugged and cried, my mom talked to Bob, telling him that Katie was welcome at our house anytime, and that we were available at all times if they needed anything.
We didn’t stay long. My mom knew they were exhausted and that Bob had a ton of preparations to make for the funeral. I cried again as I watched my mom tearfully hug Katie. “You know how much she loved you,” my mom finally managed to say. “And you know that I love you too.” Katie nodded and thanked her, and that was it. We walked out of what now seemed more like a house than a home.
As I walked down the stairs of their front porch, I heard a familiar voice inside my head. Michelle, do you trust Me?
Of course I trust you, God. You know that.
I know. But do you really trust Me?
The second time I heard the question, I didn’t answer. What does He mean, do I trust Him?
I snapped back to reality and watched my mom wipe tears from underneath her eyes as we drove back to our house. As I looked at her, I knew that God was going to change something. And it had to do with my mom.

Coffee-like Christianity

Each generation seems to earn a nickname from society. Our parents are part of the Baby Boomers (named after the big spike in birth rates after the Great Depression.) We make up Generation X. On one hand, Generation X is defined as lazy, unmotivated, and has difficulty paying attention. Gen X'ers are also noted as being the most technologically-savvy and majorly responsible for the Internet's growth and popularity.

So what's next? As we study time and history, we can make educated guesses about the future. So what will the next generation be known as? What is making a radical impact today that will influence tomorrow? Any guesses?

You got it. The Starbucks Generation. Face it. Starbucks is everywhere. In addition to being on almost every corner, you can find them in your local Super Target and pretty much every mall's Food Court. Starbucks has even found its way into stadiums, university libraries, and concert arenas. You can find the coffee beans in almost every grocery store.

So as the church, what are we doing to reach the Starbucks generation? Or what are we not doing to reach the Starbucks Generation? Unfortunately, I think many of the same complaints that you could hear at Starbucks, a non-Christian could also use to discuss Christians and our approach to sharing the gospel...

"I can't drink this. It's way too strong..."

"Are you sure this is coffee? This tastes way too weak..."

"Something's wrong with this coffee....it just tastes bitter..."

"My latte was supposed to be hot...but this is way too cold..."

Do we sometimes come on too strong and turn people away? Or do we remain too weak in our own flesh to reach out to someone who may be hurting? Do we focus too much on the problems in life and appear bitter on the outside rather than emphasizing the blessings God has given us and the sweetness that Jesus provides on the inside? And is being cool so much more important than showing we care to where we just end up coming off cold?

Over the next few posts, let's examine our hearts and see how we can prepare ourselves to get the Starbucks generation out of the coffee shop and into the church.

Hebrews 12:1-3

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls." - Hebrews 12:1-3

The Brick

Sometimes as a writer, you know when someone else's story conveys everything you need to say. I hope this unknown author's message speaks to you as loudly as it did to me...

A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared . Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door!

He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?"

The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother, "he said. "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up. "Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me."

Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. "Thank you and may God bless you," the grateful child told the stranger.

Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home. It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message:

"Don't go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!"

God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us. It's our choice to listen or not.

My Rescue

A young girl cries,
Because of the mirror’s lies.
What she sees with her eyes,
Is just part of Evil’s disguise.
Her beauty, he denies,
And manipulates her size,
Her waist, hips, arms, and theighs.
Every diet and exercise plan, she tries,
And each new weight loss pill, she buys.
For with his deception, she always complies,
Wishing to forever escape from the chastise,
Longing for a body she doesn’t despise.
It’s the world’s attention for which she vies,
Seeking approval with applause, titles, crowns, and guys.

To believers around her, her troubles are no surprise,
But she’s too scared to let any of them advise.
She saw them as enemies rather than allies.
Every destructive pattern noticed, she denies,
And every helping hand, she defies.
One by one, she seems to say her goodbyes,
Not with her words, but with actions, she implies.
By detecting her famine, she regards them as jealous spies,
Just waiting to steal her hard-earned will-power’s prize.

But there was one Friend who refused to downsize,
The Father of the earth, the moon, and the skies.
He saw her hurt, bore her pain, and heard her hunger sighs,
And waited for the perfect moment to Him to arise.
He knew with her life, only He could revive,
The great high King, most holy and wise.

After much struggle, she finally complies,
And with humble sobs, His grace, she applies,
For a healing plan, only God could devise.

For her tears, he dries,
And His strength, He supplies.
She lets His answers replace all her why’s,
With every new question, she submits to His replies.
The fat girl she used to see in the mirror eventually dies,
And in her Savior’s approval, she relies.

Diamond or Coal?

This blog especially goes out to one of my closest friends - a true diamond. Love you Gab. :)

Okay, let me start out by giving you a choice. If you could choose between a Tiffany's diamond pendant or a plain silver chain, which one would you choose? The DIAMOND, of course! I mean, hello! Everyone has a silver chain, but a diamond is special. A diamond is unique. A diamond is a treasure.
When I say diamond, you probably have visions of that rock of engagement ring that your super hot future husband will give you someday. But do you know how diamonds are formed? I mean, sure, they seem like they are in every jewelry store, but they are actually a very rare and precious stone. They are so rare because diamonds have to be formed in very specific conditions. Carbon (the stuff you breathe out) must withstand at least 435,113 pounds of pressure PURE INCH at a temperature of at least 752 degrees Fahrenheit. That's about the weight of fifteen 18-wheeler trucks, and at least 7 times hotter than a Chi flat iron! If there is any less pressure or any lower temperature, you just get graphite, a grade of coal.
So what does that mean for us? If you want to remain a treasure for your husband and for God, you have to withstand the INTENSE pressure and heat of being a female in today's world. No easy task -- just like the specific conditions of forming a diamond.
Think of something that a guy treasures -- like his car. By observing just a few things, I can tell how a guy values his car. If he drives it as hard as he can, as fast as he can, and pays no attention to the car's maintenance, the only work he did for the car was hold out his hand for his parents to give him the keys. However, the guy who meticulously washes his car twice a week, won't drive it when there's a chance of rain, and gets upset if someone puts fingerprints on the hood -- he probably had to work very hard to earn the money and the responsibility to have a car.
Here's the catch - a guy will treat you the same way! If you come onto him or make it easy on him, giving in to the heat of the moment or the pressure of the situation, he will ride you as hard and as fast and he can. But if he has to work for you and can see you withstand this world's heat and pressure, he will cherish you like the rare treasure that God created you to be.
So maybe you haven't met that guy yet. You will. But until then, all you have to do is just dig into God's word to know how much God values you. God's Word says that we are His people and His treasured possession (Deuteronomy 26:18). He knows how many hairs are on your head - plus how many are highlighted (Luke 12:7). He has every tear that you've ever cried collected in a bottle (Psalm 56:8). You were feafully and wonderfully created when He wove you together in your mother's womb (Psalm 113:13-14). You were created for a specific purpose, and He has a plan just for you (Jeremiah 29:11), And even when you don't know exactly what is going on in life...maybe it feels like your whole world is falling apart. But even through those moments, God is working for your good (Romans 8:28). Withstand the pressure. Take the heat. Be His treasure.

Don't believe everything you read...

So I came across this list the other day of things girls should do for guys....some of them are right. Some of them are wrong. Some of them just need to be adjusted. So I've included the orignal list along with my corrections in bold.

1 As much as you want to talk about past relationships, keep it to a minimum, unless he asks. You don't want him to feel like he's in competition with anyone. However, there is a fine line here with honesty. If you can't be open about your past and things that have hurt you, etc., it won't be much of a relationship. So while you shouldn't talk incessantly about an ex-boyfriend. never neglect to be honest.

2 Every guy has a 'geeky' side of him. Whether it be video games, DVD, WoW, anime, football among other sports, or whatever. Don't make fun of him if you don't like it, either tolerate it, or learn to like it. DO NOT try to change him. If he's constantly ignoring you for that hobby of his, tell him. It's about compromise - chances are you can drag him around a mall later. But be sure there's a balance in the relationship so you are both getting to do things yoiu enjoy.

3 When you hug the boy, hold tight. It doesn't hurt to rest your head on him either. But there are always other ways of showing affection rather than just physical ways...

4 Compromise for movies. Watch his favorite movies and he'll give in for the movie you want to see. Just get really good at shutting your eyes during the war scenes. Welcome to my life.

5 Sometimes pay for the date! I know guys hate this, but if he takes you out constantly, it's more than likely he's going to be poor! Treat him sometime. Even if you just buy the snacks! Plus, you don't have to spend money to have a good time. And double dates with your parents are great ways to go out, save money, and make them happy too!

6 Hold his hand!! Even in the mall when you have a ton of bags, hold his hand. If you're at the mall and have a ton of bags, he should be carrying them. End of story.

7 Don't run away from his favorite stores, if you don't like them! Watch him. Gift ideas!! It's obvious a guy wrote this list. Girls don't run from stores. Period.

8 Any time your guy gives you a compliment, don't just roll your eyes. He means it, and you should smile and say thank you. I know it's hard, girls, but your guy really does care about you. If you respond this way and then get mad at him when he doesn't compliment you anymore, it's no wonder! Quit rejecting the poor guy's efforts to make you feel special!

9 Guys are pressured to take the relationship to a "deeper level". Stupid society. Anyway, if you dont want that in a relationship, tell him before things get too complicated! You can compromise too. If you are uncomfortable with something, STOP. Wow. I don't even know where to start with this one. THROW IT OUT. NEVER compromise. And if you don't want a real relationship, you shouldn't be dating in the first place.

10 “Fine" or “whatever" is not an appropriate ending to a conversation. Only makes matters worse. True. He's not a mind-reader. Tell him what's going on in a mature way, and never go to bed angry.

11 Life isn't a drama or a movie. This is real life, people. They don't often come with a sword, armor, and a white steed. That still doesn't give him an excuse to not treat you like a princess.

12 NEVER EVER kick them in the place below the belt. Even in a fight or argument, just don't do it. Hopefully, most girls wouldn't respond with physical violence, but just in case we need to go there - violence isn't the answer.

13 TRUST HIM. Don't scream when he looks at another girl. We know you were goggling at the cute guy that just passed. It's nature. Don't dig through his phonebook, and hey, guys can have female friends just like girls can have male friends. If this makes things awkward, talk about it. The Bible says that if you look at someone with lust, then you have committed adultry of the heart. This shouldn't be dismissed as "everyone does it, so it's okay." Pray for each other.

14 This should go without saying. Love him for who he is! Don't worry about what others think. Don't try to change him into what's cool and hip. Some compromises can be made, and tell him that if he ever has a problem you changing him, to tell you. But you can always encourage and build one another up to be better and grow closer to God. You should be constantly changing as you grow in Christ because you are a new creation in Him.

15 In an argument, just because society stereotypes women as being smarter, more mature, and men as dumb and immature, doesn't mean you are always right. No, no one is right all of the time. That's why you should always seek God's guidance and direction rather than man's (or woman's.)

16 Listen to him. Even if it's something you don't want to hear. Good communication is key. Yes, you should listen to him. But until you get married, your first authority is to your God and your second authority is your dad. If he is disobedient to one of those, don't listen to him.

17 Cook. It may sound stereotypical, but a lot of guys like having a meal cooked for them. A lot of it is the thought, but if you truly are terrible, then maybe this isn't one you should try. If you know how to cook, maybe teach him, or you both can learn together. Finally. One that doesn't need to be touched.

18 Sing. Many girls underestimate how well they sing. You don't have to be able to sing 10 octaves or whatever. Don't be embarrassed to sing in front of a guy, just let yourself go a bit and have some fun. This is true. Never neglect to be yourself.

19 A girl has the right to show off her body, but keep your pride and dignity. Be careful! If you show off too much, guys (and just people in general) may get the wrong message and make assumptions. I can't "amen" this one enough! Girls, if it's not for sale, don't advertise.

20 Just like girls want girl time, guys want guy time. Giving your guy space to hang with his friends is not only fair, but it shows you trust him in a way. Friendship is very important, especially fellowship with other believers. And just a side note, if you think that you can't trust his friends, then you probably can't trust him either.

21 Respect the guy for who he is, not because he earns your respect. Guys relate to each other on a respect level, and if you want him to open up to you, he has to know that you don't look down on him. Umm, wrong? Respect has to be earned. Sorry, guys. It's not that easy.

22 Let your guy take pictures of you. He may not admit it, but that picture will probably be with him always. Even if you think it looks horrible. As long as the picture is one you would show your parents, yes..

23 Don't always expect the guy to be the one to call. It is okay to call your boyfriend on occasion, and it shows him that you care about him and are thinking about him. And don't get upset if for some reason he doesn't have time to talk. He does have a life. If he's your boyfriend, you can call, but NEVER call a guy first before you're dating. Let him be the man and do his job. And guys, you may "have a life" but if she needs you, take the time.

24 Remind him that you appreciate all the sweet little things he does for you. Let him know it's not all in vain. True.

25 If a guy uses a key to let you into his car, reach over and open the door before he gets to it. I know this may be common sense to most girls, but you know, some do not do this. It's a tiny little action that can make a guy go "hey, she's considerate." Wow. This list was made before the magic unlock remote.

26 Let the guy open the door for you or do any other chivalric action. He's fulfilling your wish for a gentleman, don't deny him the chance to do something nice for you. Thank him! You are doing all these wonderful things for him, let him return the favor. YES! Being a gentlemen is never out of style. Yes, sure, you can do anything a man can do - but that doesn't mean that you have to.

27 Communicate with him. Tell him directly what's on your mind. You can always hope that he'll get your subtle hints or body language, but if it's important, you're better off using words. Yes. God is the only man that can read your mind.

28 Sometimes you have to take the initiative. Don't always wait for him to come to you, because if that's how it always is, you're going to lose him. Disagree. He's the man. Let him be the leader.

29 If they buy you jewelry, wear it around them, even if you don't like it. They will appreciate it, because it's the thought that counts. Not much jewelry that we wouldn't like....

30 A word of appreciation now and then regarding his protective/kind/chivalrousattitude will go miles toward the end. You won't regret it. That's been in here like 3 times already. Must be important. Be gracious. If you expect him to act like a gentleman, respond like a lady.

31 When you are talking to a guy you are interested in, lean in, touch his arm or hand, while your talking. physical touch communicates interest and value. Physical relationships are always difficult until marriage. Draw boundaries and stick to them. And don't just think that you have to run to that line and hang out there every time. Realize that until you get married, your kisses are all you have. Be stingy with them.

32 Whether it's from across the room or while your talking let him know that you are only interested in what he has to say, so look into his eyes and smile. Show him the same consideration that you want him to show to you.

33 Never judge him based on his friends. They may give some insight, but sometimes guys as well as girls can befriend people that are completely opposite of themselves because they like the change. Don't let who he hangs around with be the deciding factor of your judgments about him. Get to know him. False. Who you hang around says a lot about you. If you don't like his friends, it won't last. Don't bother.

34 Cute is what he is when he does something goofy, not how you should compliment his looks. Tell him he looks handsome... or any other word you'd use to describe James Bond. Just like you wouldn't want him to tell you that you look tough.... remember your audience. Even if you would take it as a compliment, that doesn't mean that he will!

35 Let him know you're on his side and that you support him and believe in him. Encouragement - all the way.

36 Call him instead of IMing or e-mail. Let him talk to you and hear your voice. Note: sometimes, it can't be helped. long distance relationships are sometimes forced to use AIM. In this case, use a camera!! You can see him and hear him. Typing is great, but a lot can get lost and mis-communicated. You'll save a lot of drama if you will only use texting or e-mail as a last resort.

37 Write him letters! If you want to tell him something but just can't come up with the words in person, take the time to write them down. He'll appreciate it because he can read word for word how you feel for him over and over again, and you know he won't forget it. There are some romantic gestures that will never go out of style...

38 Girls should do little things for guys. If they ask for a drink, just get it for them cuz they don't ask often. Or surprise them with little gifts (even if homemade) it ll show them that you care about them and thought about them during the day, even if they don't admit it, they like it as much as we do. Yeah, you shouldn't be his slave, but there's nothing wrong with having a servant's heart. Don't be insulted and get caught up in being a crazy feminist if he asks you to do something for him. If he's a good one, he does things for you too. No relationship should be one-sided. And the little things DO matter.

39 DON'T CHEAT ON HIM! IT'S NEVER WORTH IT! He WILL find out one way or another and odds are, you guys are through. Whether you were already split up or still dating... you'll be lucky if he still wants to be your friend! Doesn't that pretty much go without saying? But just in case you thought cheating on your boyfriend would help your relationship, it won't. And if you thought that, you're not ready to date.

40 Forgive him. Not hundreds of times for the same mistakes, but relationships are going to have problems and there will be apologies on both sides... Forgiveness is a huge part of a relationship. You may not always want to do it, and he will definitely not always deserve it, but then again, we don't necessarily always deserve forgiveness either...If you know that you and the one you are with should end the relationship, have the integrity and respect to tell them that the relationship is over. Do not just leave and never speak to them again. People are not perfect - no one is. So forgive and don't harbor bitterness, but also don't allow yourself to be emotionally abused. Guard your heart and lean on Christ. You will eventually find a man who is following Christ, and you can hop in line.