Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Everyone needs a Goose
I bought broccoli today
"Yep," I told her, "you can buy it here now."
And she said she's glad we couldn't buy it here then
Back in 2004
We're both thankful
She's an amazing Goose
I'm so thankful for her
We weren't really 'destined' to be close
This sister and I
Farthest distance age between siblings
And personalities as far as the stars
By the time she was more than a child
10,000 miles and an ocean also came between us
Sure there was love
But more distance
Her feeling the pressure
Me probably wondering how I was giving it
I just wanted to encourage
But somehow she came here
After those irritating "why's" rescued her :o)
And walked with me through one of the darkest seasons
And in that time
...The broccoli incident
"The broccoli incident"
Me, at my worst
Both of us broken, hurting
Vulnerable
Her, trying to explain the hurt
Me, trying to stop hurting her
I don't know how it happened actually
Why the resolving of that one
Brought us close
All over broccoli
She is a treasure, this Goose
A wise woman
Living out grace and love
As wife and mother
She says I am strong
Those parts of me that once caused her pain
(Still do now and again)
She ... almost commands me to live them out
The best parts of me
Don't deny them
Don't let anyone get in the way
Of living out the best in you
I remember the first time she did it
Challenged my view about myself
"When I hear you talk about how others see you,
You sound grateful that they even put up with you.
But when I hear others talk about you,
It's about how you have inspired and encouraged them."
It's ironic
I'm the one with the "strong personality"
But much in me chooses again and again
to crawl in a cave
and hide it all
Afraid I will be too much
Only the greatest need
And much coaxing
Call me to finally boldly live
She's the gentle one, the soft one
And yet she boldly lives out who she is
And challenges me to do the same
Everyone should be blessed with a Goose in their life!
Someone who loves you
As you are
Someone who makes you stay
Even when you're hurting them
"I want us to work through this together"
Goose, Hun, Sisto
You have become one of the safest places
A place I know I'm truly loved
And so
We stay together
And can keep going together
And I am so darn blessed!
Leech Strategy
Thank you S.L., once again you have blessed my life. You are STILL blessing my life!
So many years ago we met--about 19 years ago now. I still remember the day, you and another came in. We celebrated our birthdays together that year--I turned 25, you turned 27. Another year later when I was back, through co-leading a group and conflict, and working it out, then as I was moving away we discovered...friendship. Do you remember, that following year--reading together, weekly fasting, lots of visits? You reminded me of the homeless boy with the burned face and hands. Yes, we shared that together too. But that other thing you said, "Every time my bra is uncomfortable, I think of how you..." Seriously, I have NO IDEA what you're talking about! I do remember setting you up for that photo--now that was a good one!
Then you moved away, on to new adventures, other places...so many other places. And yet you kept in touch, making a point to connect when we'd be going through the same places. Each time--a joy, lots of fun, and good deep challenging conversation. I love that we can talk straight with each other, no fear of offending. Say it like it is, hash it out, question, share--knowing we're both going the same direction, aiming for the same things, so much to be gained both ways.
You are an inspiration! You're so alive, excited, passionate about life. I always wonder what new foods you'll urge me to try. And here you go now, even though it's tiring, still up for new adventures, changes, new occupation (a farmer now, and so proud of your "farmer tan"), even a new country (well, not so new for you). You're still learning new things, still aware of ways you need to change and grow personally. Once again I'm blessed to be hanging out with you. Three years since we last saw each other, but no transition time needed, just more of the same good stuff!
And thanks for the stories. There we were, you telling about the new adventure and its new challenges, weaving a great story; me laughing and laughing and laughing some more. Thanks for the leeches strategy! Who knows, I may need it someday. Now I know--should I ever encounter them on mountain treks. First, roll up your pant legs, so you can see them right away, and flick them off. Then, walk at the front of the group--those leeches stand up, and start hopping when they hear walking, the first in the group is less likely to get as many bites. (Hey there friend, this one does not sound very self-sacrificing! I don't know...I think Jesus might walk at the back. :o) ) I forgot to ask, but...since salt takes them off, should I always carry a salt shaker too?
You are a treasure S.L.! I love you, friend. Thank you for being one of those people that know me so well, have seen some of the worst parts of me, and yet still love me. I'm so glad God brought you into my life, and that we've been able to connect and mutually encourage and inspire time and again through the years. Times with you always leave me full, satisfied, inspired and challenged. Somehow through times with you I gain new hope, new energy for the journey! And this time, the bonus of a strategy for leeches!
You are a treasure! Thank you! Press on!
So many years ago we met--about 19 years ago now. I still remember the day, you and another came in. We celebrated our birthdays together that year--I turned 25, you turned 27. Another year later when I was back, through co-leading a group and conflict, and working it out, then as I was moving away we discovered...friendship. Do you remember, that following year--reading together, weekly fasting, lots of visits? You reminded me of the homeless boy with the burned face and hands. Yes, we shared that together too. But that other thing you said, "Every time my bra is uncomfortable, I think of how you..." Seriously, I have NO IDEA what you're talking about! I do remember setting you up for that photo--now that was a good one!
Then you moved away, on to new adventures, other places...so many other places. And yet you kept in touch, making a point to connect when we'd be going through the same places. Each time--a joy, lots of fun, and good deep challenging conversation. I love that we can talk straight with each other, no fear of offending. Say it like it is, hash it out, question, share--knowing we're both going the same direction, aiming for the same things, so much to be gained both ways.
You are an inspiration! You're so alive, excited, passionate about life. I always wonder what new foods you'll urge me to try. And here you go now, even though it's tiring, still up for new adventures, changes, new occupation (a farmer now, and so proud of your "farmer tan"), even a new country (well, not so new for you). You're still learning new things, still aware of ways you need to change and grow personally. Once again I'm blessed to be hanging out with you. Three years since we last saw each other, but no transition time needed, just more of the same good stuff!
And thanks for the stories. There we were, you telling about the new adventure and its new challenges, weaving a great story; me laughing and laughing and laughing some more. Thanks for the leeches strategy! Who knows, I may need it someday. Now I know--should I ever encounter them on mountain treks. First, roll up your pant legs, so you can see them right away, and flick them off. Then, walk at the front of the group--those leeches stand up, and start hopping when they hear walking, the first in the group is less likely to get as many bites. (Hey there friend, this one does not sound very self-sacrificing! I don't know...I think Jesus might walk at the back. :o) ) I forgot to ask, but...since salt takes them off, should I always carry a salt shaker too?
You are a treasure S.L.! I love you, friend. Thank you for being one of those people that know me so well, have seen some of the worst parts of me, and yet still love me. I'm so glad God brought you into my life, and that we've been able to connect and mutually encourage and inspire time and again through the years. Times with you always leave me full, satisfied, inspired and challenged. Somehow through times with you I gain new hope, new energy for the journey! And this time, the bonus of a strategy for leeches!
You are a treasure! Thank you! Press on!
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