I need your permission to be REAL.
...to be AUTHENTIC.
...to be RAW.
Actually, on second thought, I don't.
Those of you I see in person, thank you for your thoughtfulness and kindness.
Those of you that take the time time to genuinely ask how I'm doing and wait for my answer, thank you.
Those that have sent a meal to lighten our load, you have no idea how much it has blessed my little family. Thank you.
The few of you that take the time to text or message me to check in and see how I'm doing, thank you.
Those of you that make time in your day to call me or send an email, thank you. I see you. I notice your thoughtfulness. I see your kindness. I recognize your outreach. I appreciate your prayers. I am humbled by your continued support. God bless you.
The reality is...MY reality is...that I don't need your permission to be real, authentic, raw, or honest with you. I've been told time and again that my optimism is encouraging. I'm thankful to be able to encourage others however I'm struggling to maintain this upbeat attitude. I'm tired. I'm hurting. I'm scared. I'm lonely. I'm worn...
I never cease to be amazed by you. By your ongoing prayers. By your loving support. By your love. My prayer today is that you'll still be there for me and my family when I'm not exemplifying the picture of hope and joy you've come to expect from me. I'm so tired...
Friends and family, I love you dearly. Strangers unknown to me, those that have found their way here, I pray my journey, my words, my experience, brings you hope. I thank you all for your prayers. I pray you'll extend grace for the days I fail to "shine". I'm doing the best I can. I pray God continues to give me the strength needed to push on each day. I pray he brings comfort, joy, and rest on the days I can't. He can. I trust Him.
Tell your loved ones you love them. Don't get caught up in trivial matters that separate you. Our days are numbered. Forgive often. Laugh. Cry. Live. Love. Grow.
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