Lert's Lessons in Grace

Tomorrow is our last day…Saturday is already pegged as a sleep-in day.  It’s only 3 hours a day – although for SuperWoman Terry – I’m pretty sure it’s been a 24/7 thing for probably months.  This woman could run circles around the Energizer Bunny.  Watching her helps me realize how much I miss children’s ministry activities – and at the same time – what an incredible time commitment it is.

Three hours a day – with young energy and enthusiasm, and the kids are huge eyeball sponges.  They see more than you realize, and soak it all in.  You realize this almost immediately, and sometimes what you see or hear makes you realize that perhaps you should be more careful.  My daughter shared a quote on Facebook – “Be the kind of leader you want to follow”.  So very appropriate…  At some point, each of us are going to be in a position of leadership – intentionally, paid, volunteer, or totally unaware.  When you accept a leadership position, it comes with responsibility.  When those you are leading talk, listen (not just hear them).  When you make promises, honor them (or explain that you are not able to).  And if, or when you need respite, admit that also (this sends a huge message about recognizing limitations, and honoring your own needs).

My group, as I mentioned before, are the Starfish – the Green Team.  We have nametags, and green belts (or headbands, depending on your style sense) to wear.  I was having a hard time getting the group to wear them, and realized I wasn’t wearing one.  It was amazing to see that simply tying a green belt around my waist and putting on my lanyard was enough to get the Green Team compliant with our fashion requirements.  Just one tiny example from this week.

Sharing your gifts – it has been so encouraging watching the kids share something they are good at with others.  Crafts are a good example – the kids just jump right in and help each other.  There is no judgment, no berating – just the willingness to help.

Caring for others – I love asking kids to pray for someone (for whatever reason – illness, need, joy) – because they take it seriously.  They throw themselves in to the act heart and soul (and it’s important to note that the physical size of the heart and soul are not proportional to the depth and intent of the prayer) and have complete faith that their prayers are heard and will be answered.  And they will check up on the progress of their efforts!  How often can that be said of us adults?

Speaking their truth – most of the time, kids tell you what they are thinking.  And they listen to what you say.  They don’t psychoanalyze you, or look for hidden agendas.  This is not to say that they don’t know how to manipulate the situation, though.  They also ask for clarification.

Last, but not least – a little bit of humor….the snack of the day, keeping with our beach/ocean theme – was an octopus made out of crackers, pretzels, and fruit.  Overheard during snack time….”it’s an octopus – because see, right here – (pointing to the 8 pretzels arranged around the bottom of the cracker) it has 8 testicles…”  Fortunately, I had already swallowed the last of my grape juice just seconds before.

 

Note to self, ask Miss Terry for a copy of the music from this week to add to my running playlist….I can joyfully remember this special week every time I run!

Today was Day 2 for VBS.  Although this program is for ages 5-12, with teens acting as leaders – I’m pretty sure I’ve learned far more than the kids.  We spend 3 hours together each morning.  I was so excited to see my Starfish this morning – and proud to say I am a starfish as well!  My Stars are 9-10 years old, and they are boys.  What a privilege it is to spend time with these guys.  We’ve talked about fishing (not just about fish – but tackle and line also!), cars, flying, the beach, spiders, and snakes.  That is in addition to our Bible lessons.

The first grace lesson actually started a little before the start of VBS.  I was planning to help my Mom with the Creation Station projects (really cool nature projects), but felt led to offer to help out wherever needed if a position needed to be filled.  So, I followed the God nudge and did just that.  Terry – our fearless leader – was receptive to the offer.  Monday morning found me gifted the Starfish/Green Team leader.  Awesome stuff!

The next grace lesson was the treasure of remembering the joy of working with children.  I crave the childlike faith these kids have.  It’s interesting to watch the change as you observe the age groups.  Our Minnows – the 5 & 6 year-olds – they are full of joy.  They dance with abandon, and sing, and NO ONE dulls their sparkle!  The 7-8 year-old group isn’t quite as jubilant.  The 9 & 10 group – well, we are boys with one old lady.  It’s apparently not so cool for boys to sing and dance.  The older kids and teens – it’s interesting.  They stand around in a group, and watch.  There is this look in their eyes that says “I really want to dance around and sing – but what will the others think?”  Terry is a dynamo – she is dancing and singing with enough enthusiasm for all the bystanders.  The rest of us leaders – we’re trying to sing and dance – just not with as much success as the 5 & 6 year olds!  When it’s time for our Bible story though, all ages are tuned in to the story.  They absorb and learn those lessons.  Seeds are planted – good seeds.

Kids, especially the young ones, are fascinating.  Many have “back stories” that would make you cry.  Most often, you’ll never know what those stories are.  If you are lucky enough to have them share that story with you, realize that you have earned their trust.  DON’T mess with that.  Recognize the value of that precious gift, honor the giver.  (This is a lesson I learned long ago in children’s ministry work.)  The other thing about these kids?  They carry these stories inside – but the stories don’t control them.  They still know how to look for joy and give and share joy.  I think as we grow, we forget how to be like children.  We carry our hurt, grudges, fears, etc. and wear them like badges.  My greatest joy yesterday and today was seeing smiles on my Stars faces.  Those are riches beyond compare!  Kids most often will accept you for who you are.  Something else we lose as we age.

Energy grace lesson – children have huge amounts of energy, and their enthusiasm is contagious.  Unfortunately, at least for me – it is not sustainable like it seems to be for the kids.  But it is renewable!  I am excited to soak up as much energy and enthusiasm for life as possible with these amazing kids.

One more quick one before bed – don’t overthink things!

Excited for the rest of the week…

Everybody knows about bucket list items, and probably has at least a few items on their list.  I’ve started a different list – it’s my “If I could do anything in the world (without regard to cost), I would…”.

Well, one of the things on those list – I’m seriously looking into making it happen.  It’s exciting, scary, and feels like exactly what I should be doing.  If you would have told me a couple months ago I would be entertaining this idea – I would have laughed.  Not now.  Right now, it feels like something I know I need to do.  I’m not intimidated by the time commitment, or the work I know will be involved.  I am concerned about the effect it will have on others for the time it will take me achieve this goal – but it is not enough to deter me.

At my age, in this stage of my life, I find myself investigating educational opportunities – I will be checking out schools, weighing options, considering locations – and it is exciting!  I should correct this – it’s not “I”, but we.  Bill is encouraging me, we are looking at this stuff together.  Someone asked if I was looking for a new career – and I can honestly say I wasn’t.  I enjoy what I do – and I will always be a nurse.  Nursing isn’t a job – it’s a lifestyle, and I don’t think you can ever make it go away.  At the same time, I’m pretty sure (99.9%) that I’ve found a different passion/career opportunity.

Over the next month, I will be delving deeper, exploring and talking with schools, praying and listening with patience.  I firmly believe that God planted the seed – actually a very long time ago – and He stirred life into that seed recently.  You know what?  I’m not even going to pack a parachute for this.  If it turns out that this is where I’m headed – I will take a couple steps back – then run with my heart and jump.  So, my grace lessons are to indeed be patient, and to listen for God’s voice – not mine.  If you’re reading this, and are so inclined – I would be ever so grateful for your prayers and good thoughts.  More details as they become more firmly grounded.  Anyone else in this wonderful place of exploring?

We were at the hangar working on the T’hawk yesterday.  During one of our breaks, I noticed two hawks flying around the airport.  There were absolutely beautiful – it was like watching an aerial ballet.  The choreography was amazing.  They were soaring, catching thermals, diving, and giving the general appearance of grace.

Later, we watched thunderheads build around us, and totally miss us.  The majestic formations reflecting the sunlight were so colorful, and the subtle changes as the storms developed within were interesting to watch.

This morning, on the way home from swimming, we watched a doe saunter and graze through a neighborhood.  She was oblivious to the cars passing and people stopping to admire her.

Finally, the last part of my trip home took me on a dirt “two-track” surrounded by trees.  Every time I am on this particular portion (and that is very frequent) – I am just filled to overflowing with a wonderful sense of peace.  It’s quiet, except for birdsong and the wind in the trees, very green this time of the year with protective shade, and oh so inviting.

My lessons in grace from these:

1. Soar, rise above being grounded to the earth.  Make friends with the air currents – dance on them.  Do this with someone, if possible.  Find that person that you can fly in sync with – the one that encourages you to go just a little higher.
2. Appreciate the beauty and majesty of nature – and always be aware of the raw power and force contained within. Be brave and watch the fury of the storm, and then appreciate the clean feel and scent after the storm passes.
3. Take your time and linger in nature. Trust people a bit – not everyone is a hunter with a gun pointed in your direction.
4. Find your peace-filled spots, keep them in mind so you know where you can go to recharge and refresh your soul.
5. All of nature is filled with grace, beauty, power, sanctuary, and danger – we just have to take the time to notice!

Scripted responses irritate me.  “I hear you” seems to be a popular response when concerns are expressed, just as “I believe in you” is a popular response when expressing concerns about ability or goals.

Not listening irritates me also.  Sometimes you just know that you are talking, and the person you are talking to is only hearing you – maybe – and definitely not listening.  There is a difference – it’s not just semantics.  Look up the definitions – hearing is simply the awareness that sound is occurring.  It is a passive activity.  When I am told “I hear you” – what I understand is that you are aware that I said something – not that you have actually attempted to understand.  Listening is an active process that includes understanding, or seeking to understand the intent of the message.  It is usually an interactive process.

“I believe in you” is kind of like the difference between hearing and listening.  Consider the source…is it someone you trust to have the knowledge to make that statement?  Is it someone who is saying it because they feel it is expected of them?  It is almost as trite as the overuse of the word love.

When someone expresses a concern, it is worthy of listening and honesty.  We listened to the song “Rainy Day People”, and I realized I want more rainy day people around me.  The ones who listen until they’ve heard it all, respond with empathy, and mean what they say.

Lately, I’ve had this message presented in so many forms that I am paying attention.  I am aware of how this makes me feel when it happens to me – and am using this as a lesson for working on my listening skills and the way I respond to others.  Instead of trotting out the “I believe in you” bit, maybe focusing on finding out why that person doesn’t believe in oneself – after all, that is what matters most.

More opportunities to work on grace…

We have been celebrating my birthday for 3 days now.  Bill graciously let me choose the activities, provided appropriate encouragement and participation, and threw in some treats along the way.

After having him ask what I wanted to do, and what I would like for gifts for at least a month prior, I finally put some thought into it and gave him lists.

On Sunday, to celebrate the last day of year 56 – I ran a 5k.  I got a 2^nd place medal, and Bill gave me a frog to sit on my work desk.  Bill was my cheering section for the 5k – and then took me to car show.  I am not really a car aficionado – but I truly delight in going to car shows to have him explain the cars to me.  I am in awe of his knowledge, and he makes car history come to life for me.  We enjoyed a lazy afternoon, a healthy late supper, and a relaxing evening.

Monday started as a Monday should – wake up when we wake up – not to an alarm.  I met Mom at church to help with a little project and enjoy being in her company.  You never outgrow the need for your Mom – and it just seems right to be with her on your birthday.  Then Bill took me to the airport (my choice!) – we picked up lunch and had a work date at the hangar.  We spent the day working on the airplane (he did have a funeral to attend for Honor Guard – but trusted me to continue the work we started) and attacking our airplane “things to do list”.  Supper at the hangar and wrapped up the day with ice cream before coming home and watching American Ninja Warrior (my choice – and I am waiting for the day when they have a special one for old ladies).

Today was a continuation of the celebration.  Another wake-up without an alarm day.  Today, I wanted to go to our “little cabin” – it is a primitive cabin (think one room and an outhouse), and the address we use as our “home address” to establish residency in Michigan.  I packed stuff for supper, and we picked up lunch on the way.  I got to mow the grass – we use a push mower – and Bill manned the burning barrels.  {The cabin needs a lot of attention, and I have been very reluctant to go there in the past.  Recently, when we went, I killed some dragons there – and I find myself looking forward to our next trip.}  I mowed, and mowed, and mowed some more.  My Garmin says I walked 31,000+ steps – about 16 miles.  It pretty much feels like it.  I am dirty, grimy, sweaty, tired, and smiling all over.  I made supper while we were working so we could eat before leaving.  On the way home, I was treated with a Lemon Ice with strawberries.

By most standards – this is not a typical birthday celebration.  I’m not typical, and I decided that I would choose the activities that would bring joy to my heart.  All these activities were as special as they were because we did them together.  It’s not the “things” that bring the most joy – it’s the moments and the people that are there to share them with you.

I am truly blessed with many wonderful people in my life.  This was highlighted by the overwhelming birthday wishes on Facebook.  Each wish came from someone that brings a smile to my face, and warmth to my heart.

Even if I tried, I could never begin to count my blessings.  There isn’t a number that high.

This, friends, is how you have a truly wonderful birthday celebration.  Choose what lights you up, not what others deem as acceptable birthday celebratory activities.  By God’s grace, we are all unique and must to celebrate that.

The town we are staying in is pretty small by most standards, and not really visible from the main road.  It is almost embarrassing to admit that we have been driving through for more than 30 years, and never really explored the town until we have made it our unofficial Michigan home.

It is neat, clean, friendly, and has great running paths.  When we first explored, we discovered a small lake with a path around it – and I was delighted to see swans floating peacefully on the still water.  As we walked around the lake, I noticed after awhile that they weren’t moving.  Closer inspection confirmed that observation, and we learned that these were decoys to keep the Canadian Geese off the lake.

Here is the view from my run this morning:

I thought about these swans this morning, and what they represent.  To the casual observer – it is a beautiful scene.  Kind of like people who appear beautiful (on the outside, at least), calm, and no worries or cares.  To the person that takes the time to look closer – care enough to check carefully – there is so much more to note.  Those swans are hollow, not really living – a decoy to scare away others – keep them at a distance.  There was a brave Canadian Goose that dared to land on the lake, followed by another.  They were paddling about, obviously alive and enjoying themselves.  Definitely not the pristine white swan – they were shades of brown but full of life.

How many times do we put decoys out to deflect attention and keep others away?  Given the choice, would you want to be anchored in place, hollow, and keeping others at bay?  How many times do we only look and see what is on the surface – too busy or not wanting to take the time to engage and find out what is really going on?

 

 

 

Training week 2 on the road to the Trio/Tri/marathon complete.  3 shorter runs this week, they felt good!  It was fun to run around Monroe again.  Taking responsibility for planning feels good.

Lately I seem to be running into recurrent themes (God nudges) centered around seasons, reasons, submission, and change.  Excellent thought topics for running.

Today is dedicated to celebrating Bill and delighting in the wonderful memories of Dad – and staying cool.

Next week training activities are planned, need to plan our menu and shopping list yet.  In Mayport, I started making my shopping list by category – it works so well.  Based on the layout of the store (typical of most stores) – I list fresh produce, then meat/seafood, dairy/eggs/cheese, and finally – the dry goods (aisle stuff).  Doing this keeps me on the healthy perimeter of the store, and I only venture down the aisles that I need.  This really cuts down on the processed foods temptations, shortens my time in the store, and keeps me focused.  Menu planning means I choose 7 dinner meals, create my shopping list, and then choose a meal that fits in with the day’s plans.  Living in the RV means not a lot of storage space, and only purchasing the food you need for the week.

This subject has been on my heart for a while now, and this post has undergone several rewrites.  When I worked in an office, I had a reminder on my bulletin board that God brought people into our life to either be a blessing or a challenge.  Sometimes they are both, but always at least one or the other.  Ironically, some people that started out as a huge challenge ended up being unbelievable blessings.  Occasionally the opposite is true also.  The same is true of situations – blessings and challenges.

I believe that our perception or attitude has a lot to do with how we view the person or situation.  We can choose to see them as blessings or challenges and respond accordingly.  What about those times when you are surprised – either in a positive way – or negative way?  Do you respond to the person or the behavior?  Try and figure out what prompted the behavior?  Choices….

Some of my response at the time stems from the season I am in.  Seasons of rest, change, or growth affect my response.

It’s very easy to think about people and situations that you are experiencing; or have experienced in the past and label them as a blessing or challenge.  Have you ever stopped to consider your presence or part in a situation in someone’s life?  Are you there as a blessing or a challenge?  Do you build them up or manipulate/control them for your own purpose or amusement?  Are you even cognizant of the effect you have on others?  Do you believe that you are either the manipulator or the manipulated?  Sometimes, when I discover that I am being manipulated, I find it very satisfying to play along…although, frequently find myself feeling sorry for the person that feels it necessary to manipulate others.  It’s always a good lesson and reminder to make me more aware of the potential to be a manipulator, and work to avoid that.

What about seasons?   There are times that it is easy to figure out what “season” you are in and engage in the work of that time.  It’s just as easy to ignore seasons and just float through life; or try to control them and fail to learn.  I have been pondering what causes or initiates us to change ‘seasons’.  There are always the obvious factors that stimulate change, like kicking someone out of the nest, or tossing them in the deep end of the pool….  I am more interested in figuring out the more subtle internal drive to seek change, especially when I find myself in a comfortable place.

My challenge for myself is to be aware of the reason I am in someone’s life – am I a blessing or a challenge?  And to be aware of the season I am in – and exploit it fully – and be ready to move gracefully into the next season.  With age comes the awareness that challenges are blessings in disguise, and some blessings are challenges in disguise.

As I was laying in bed savoring the possibilities of the day, a thought/challenge came into presence.  It was one of the moments when you are mostly awake, but still floating in the half-aware state.  That challenge:  “Are you brave enough to pray this prayer?  Dear Lord – when I get prideful or over-committed – break my heart and bring me back to You and Your ways.”

What a wonderful reminder that it is His will, not mine.  His way, His plan far surpasses what I can even hope to imagine!