Have you seen Disney’s movie Cars? It’s about a stuck-up race car who discovers that life isn’t all about him. Lightening McQueen finds himself stranded in a little run-down, desert town that’s barely still on the map. The town judge sentences the racecar to community service as punishment for his reckless driving the night he got separated from his transport truck.
“Help! I’m in Hillbilly (opposite of heaven) !” He yells, totally disgusted with the backward towns people.
“Sarah,” My sister asked from the living room where the movie was playing;
“Is that how you felt when we first came here?”
“Yep!” I laughed from kitchen.
I can’t tell you how many times McQueen’s same thought has run through my mind since we moved up here… (Okay not exactly the same, but pretty close at times.)
Spokane in and of itself isn’t a real wild city. But in the almost four years we’ve lived in the Inland Northwest, I’ve discovered:
Why country music was written.
That there are still unpaved highways in the US.
Met characters I formally thought only existed in books.
And learned an entirely new way of life. A different, hard, but beautiful and rewarding way of life.
Now when I see a red barn in a golden wheat field I think of freedom. Our nation is built on the backs of men and women who were willing to work the land. Who prayed for good harvests, rain, and were there to help neighbors through tough times.
Perhaps this “great recession” is bringing us back to taste those days. They are bittersweet. Life can be tough sometimes. But its so worth the living.
The racecar in the Disney movie learned to love the people he was trapped with, and in the end he didn’t want to leave.
Oh, I miss California sometimes. I miss the people, the culture, the fast-pace life. I could live there again. But I have fallen in love with the mountains and wide open spaces. And the people who make this part of the world unique. Can you have two earthly homes? I think so…
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
“Sometimes the thing we don’t want to do, is the thing we need to do the most”
It was probably the last thing I really wanted to do. This was a sad week for me, and I desired nothing more than to be left alone to feel sorry for myself. But my Aunt’s phone call on Tuesday morning interrupted my plans;
“Sarah, your cousin Amy needs babysitting this weekend, and I won’t be available until Sunday. What do you think about you and your sister driving over here to spend the weekend with them?”
“Ah, oh, that sounds fun.” I replied.
“They’ve be wanting to have you guys over anyway, and I thought this might be a good time.”
“Well sure, thanks for the invite. Today is the last day of my job, and I’ve got to leave for work soon. But can I give you guys a call later to work out the details?”
“Absolutely. I’ve got to get going too. I’ll give you Amy’s phone number so you can talk to her. I’m glad you guys can come!”
“Yeah, me too, have a good day Aunt Denny. Love you, see you soon!”
That started an eight day trip for Missie and I. We visited our cousins, Aunt Denny, and grandparents on the Westside. (In Spokane the “Westside” is slang for Seattle area.) If it had been up to me I wouldn’t have gone that week. I was sad, tired, and worn out from the emotional toll leading up to my homecare client’s move. Nonetheless, I felt the Lord’s prompting that this was the right thing to do. And for once I listened, without too much grumbling...
It ended up being one of the best trips I’ve had over there. And just the right medicine to get my mind off my problems. My sister and I stayed up late watching movies, played with my cousin’s kids, laughed with my grandparents and took day trips to the pool, park, and beaches. We ate lots of M&M’s and enjoyed junk food we don’t usually eat (which is good, considering it doesn’t take that many days to gain five or ten extra pounds.)
God always has our best interest in mind. Even when we don’t feel like it. I’m learning that the times I feel like I should control my life, are the very times I need to let it go the most.
God bless you my sisters. And may you be encouraged to do the very thing you may not want to do- it just might be what blesses you the most!
“Sarah, your cousin Amy needs babysitting this weekend, and I won’t be available until Sunday. What do you think about you and your sister driving over here to spend the weekend with them?”
“Ah, oh, that sounds fun.” I replied.
“They’ve be wanting to have you guys over anyway, and I thought this might be a good time.”
“Well sure, thanks for the invite. Today is the last day of my job, and I’ve got to leave for work soon. But can I give you guys a call later to work out the details?”
“Absolutely. I’ve got to get going too. I’ll give you Amy’s phone number so you can talk to her. I’m glad you guys can come!”
“Yeah, me too, have a good day Aunt Denny. Love you, see you soon!”
That started an eight day trip for Missie and I. We visited our cousins, Aunt Denny, and grandparents on the Westside. (In Spokane the “Westside” is slang for Seattle area.) If it had been up to me I wouldn’t have gone that week. I was sad, tired, and worn out from the emotional toll leading up to my homecare client’s move. Nonetheless, I felt the Lord’s prompting that this was the right thing to do. And for once I listened, without too much grumbling...
It ended up being one of the best trips I’ve had over there. And just the right medicine to get my mind off my problems. My sister and I stayed up late watching movies, played with my cousin’s kids, laughed with my grandparents and took day trips to the pool, park, and beaches. We ate lots of M&M’s and enjoyed junk food we don’t usually eat (which is good, considering it doesn’t take that many days to gain five or ten extra pounds.)
God always has our best interest in mind. Even when we don’t feel like it. I’m learning that the times I feel like I should control my life, are the very times I need to let it go the most.
God bless you my sisters. And may you be encouraged to do the very thing you may not want to do- it just might be what blesses you the most!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Remind Me Daily
Thunderstorms moved in on a cold front last night. Its been in the 90’s lately, but today our Northern skies carry a cool, windy summer rain. I’m actually enjoying the change of weather, its one of the things I love about Spokane. You can be wearing a t-shirt and Capri’s one day, and a need a sweater and long pants the next. The constant change keeps life interesting!
I’ve felt really restless the last few weeks. Worried about things, and wondering if they’ll turn out for better or for worse. Its like I’m waiting for answers to questions that can’t be answered right now. I have to wait on God’s perfect timing.
Just replace ‘wonder’ with ‘worry’ and these are things my mind has been dwelling on:
Wonder if our friendships or social lives will change. Or if we’re doing enough to change them. Wonder if I’ll ever get married, if I should, and to whom. I’m concerned about losing my job in another month, and what I should do after that.
Yet, with all of these concerns- there’s very little I can do to change any of them. And when you have done everything in your power, then what?
Wasting time on tomorrow’s cares and concerns (which really aren’t even tomorrow’s, because I don’t know how God may change the circumstances) is something I do so easily.
Elizabeth Elliot has some wise insights on this subject in her book, Secure in the Everlasting Arms.
“When we try to meet difficulties prematurely we have neither the light nor the strength for them yet. “As thy days so shall they strength be.”” (Scripture from Deuteronomy 33:25)
This is something I need to be reminded daily, since my tendency is to worry and try to plan out my future.
“Lord please give me the strength to let go the things I need give up, go. Help me to surrender my will (and pride) in thinking I can figure them out on my own, trusting that You have the best for me in mind- even when I don’t feel like it. And help me to see You in the day. Choosing to enjoy Your love and provision for this hour, instead of letting tomorrow’s cares invade what there is to take pleasure in today.”
“God doesn’t help those who help themselves. He helps those who give up.”
- Chuck Smith (Calvary Chapel)
I’ve felt really restless the last few weeks. Worried about things, and wondering if they’ll turn out for better or for worse. Its like I’m waiting for answers to questions that can’t be answered right now. I have to wait on God’s perfect timing.
Just replace ‘wonder’ with ‘worry’ and these are things my mind has been dwelling on:
Wonder if our friendships or social lives will change. Or if we’re doing enough to change them. Wonder if I’ll ever get married, if I should, and to whom. I’m concerned about losing my job in another month, and what I should do after that.
Yet, with all of these concerns- there’s very little I can do to change any of them. And when you have done everything in your power, then what?
Wasting time on tomorrow’s cares and concerns (which really aren’t even tomorrow’s, because I don’t know how God may change the circumstances) is something I do so easily.
Elizabeth Elliot has some wise insights on this subject in her book, Secure in the Everlasting Arms.
“When we try to meet difficulties prematurely we have neither the light nor the strength for them yet. “As thy days so shall they strength be.”” (Scripture from Deuteronomy 33:25)
This is something I need to be reminded daily, since my tendency is to worry and try to plan out my future.
“Lord please give me the strength to let go the things I need give up, go. Help me to surrender my will (and pride) in thinking I can figure them out on my own, trusting that You have the best for me in mind- even when I don’t feel like it. And help me to see You in the day. Choosing to enjoy Your love and provision for this hour, instead of letting tomorrow’s cares invade what there is to take pleasure in today.”
“God doesn’t help those who help themselves. He helps those who give up.”
- Chuck Smith (Calvary Chapel)
Monday, July 20, 2009
“I think even when I don’t ask questions”
The other day I had Anna, my eight-year-old sister with me in the car. As I wound through construction she started asking me all these questions about my job. (I do home care and work for a really sweet, young disabled lady.) Anna wanted to know specifically what kinds of things we do together, and what Emma’s character/personality was like.
My sister is a very perceptive little thing, she observes and observes. You have no idea what is going in her head until all of the sudden, she bursts forth with all of the ponderings she’s been brewing.
Today was no exception. I tried to pay attention to the road as she fired one question after another. I answered a few, but they were so direct I had a hard time avoiding them by giving general answers. Finally I realized I’d have to tell my little sister what I needed to tell everyone else; Legally, and for Emma’s privacy, I can’t give out many details.
“But its good you’re asking all these questions Anna,” I said, not wanting to discourage her curious mind, “It shows that you’re thinking.”
Anna got quiet for a minute, then she spoke, sounding a bit offended;
“I think even when I don’t ask questions.” She stated flatly.
I couldn’t help it, I started laughing! She had totally misunderstood my meaning. Quickly I reassured her that I know she thinks, even when she doesn’t ask questions.
My sister is a very perceptive little thing, she observes and observes. You have no idea what is going in her head until all of the sudden, she bursts forth with all of the ponderings she’s been brewing.
Today was no exception. I tried to pay attention to the road as she fired one question after another. I answered a few, but they were so direct I had a hard time avoiding them by giving general answers. Finally I realized I’d have to tell my little sister what I needed to tell everyone else; Legally, and for Emma’s privacy, I can’t give out many details.
“But its good you’re asking all these questions Anna,” I said, not wanting to discourage her curious mind, “It shows that you’re thinking.”
Anna got quiet for a minute, then she spoke, sounding a bit offended;
“I think even when I don’t ask questions.” She stated flatly.
I couldn’t help it, I started laughing! She had totally misunderstood my meaning. Quickly I reassured her that I know she thinks, even when she doesn’t ask questions.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Feminism. Our culture is full of it. But why?
My friend Tiffany gave me a book to read while my family vacationed in California. I’d mentioned I had brought nothing to read, and I wish I did since there ended up being some quiet mornings at our campsite. The next time I saw her she surprised me with three of her books to choose from- the one I started is called the DMZ (stands for Demilitarized Zone.)
The first couple chapters give a character sketch of a few main people in the story. Two stood out to me; an environmental activist woman, and budding journalist in her early 20’s. Both gals are career oriented- hardworking, smart, and go-getters. The author did such good job describing their thought processes. But most people would probably be pretty disgusted with the environmentalist, she’s pushy and manipulative. Even the tribal chief she’s trying to influence into joining her side, sees right through her caramel coating on a rotten apple. A hardened perspective, and “I’m right” attitude lead her team into a dangerous situation, and sadly, to their demise.
Our young journalist however, is a little less spoiled. She’s trying feminism on for size, after all, the culture tells her its what it takes to succeed. Yet you can tell this girl has pain in her past, orphaned by missionary parents, tragically killed when she was a teen. But seven years later as a young woman, trying to be tough and make a smart career move- the girl pushes for an opportunity to take a journalism assignment in the very country that holds her life’s darkest secret. I’ll try and let you know how it ends… I’ve got a quite a bit of reading to do…
Most of us would probably agree that a true, hard-core feminist is not a pleasant person to be around. Like the environmentalist in the book- they’re often pushy and manipulative. But have you wondered what makes a lady become like that? I think a painful past is often the cause of a hardened heart. For example, I wonder what Hillary Clinton’s father and growing up life was like? Or some of the other feminist activists of the 60’s and 70's? I seriously doubt any of those ladies had loving, encouraging, fathers. But does that mean abused girls, or those who grew up without a father taking the lead in their home, have no hope?
I know women personally who came from terrible, abusive backgrounds. Things I can’t even imagine. Some of these gals have had to go through tremendous refining as believers, allowing their perfect Heavenly Father to give them grace. And change their damaged perspective toward men. Now they can love their husbands and work diligently to develop good relationships with their dads, if they still have them. But sadly, I’ve known other ladies who have hung on to their bitterness, and remain stunted from growth in Christ. I pray they’ll experience God’s freedom.
What do you think? Do you know any ladies like those I’ve mentioned above? What’s your take on pain and redemption? Perhaps if you’re like me- you may have experienced some of that in your own life. How did God work on your heart?
The first couple chapters give a character sketch of a few main people in the story. Two stood out to me; an environmental activist woman, and budding journalist in her early 20’s. Both gals are career oriented- hardworking, smart, and go-getters. The author did such good job describing their thought processes. But most people would probably be pretty disgusted with the environmentalist, she’s pushy and manipulative. Even the tribal chief she’s trying to influence into joining her side, sees right through her caramel coating on a rotten apple. A hardened perspective, and “I’m right” attitude lead her team into a dangerous situation, and sadly, to their demise.
Our young journalist however, is a little less spoiled. She’s trying feminism on for size, after all, the culture tells her its what it takes to succeed. Yet you can tell this girl has pain in her past, orphaned by missionary parents, tragically killed when she was a teen. But seven years later as a young woman, trying to be tough and make a smart career move- the girl pushes for an opportunity to take a journalism assignment in the very country that holds her life’s darkest secret. I’ll try and let you know how it ends… I’ve got a quite a bit of reading to do…
Most of us would probably agree that a true, hard-core feminist is not a pleasant person to be around. Like the environmentalist in the book- they’re often pushy and manipulative. But have you wondered what makes a lady become like that? I think a painful past is often the cause of a hardened heart. For example, I wonder what Hillary Clinton’s father and growing up life was like? Or some of the other feminist activists of the 60’s and 70's? I seriously doubt any of those ladies had loving, encouraging, fathers. But does that mean abused girls, or those who grew up without a father taking the lead in their home, have no hope?
I know women personally who came from terrible, abusive backgrounds. Things I can’t even imagine. Some of these gals have had to go through tremendous refining as believers, allowing their perfect Heavenly Father to give them grace. And change their damaged perspective toward men. Now they can love their husbands and work diligently to develop good relationships with their dads, if they still have them. But sadly, I’ve known other ladies who have hung on to their bitterness, and remain stunted from growth in Christ. I pray they’ll experience God’s freedom.
What do you think? Do you know any ladies like those I’ve mentioned above? What’s your take on pain and redemption? Perhaps if you’re like me- you may have experienced some of that in your own life. How did God work on your heart?
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Welcome!
To my dear sisters in Christ,
I’m starting this blog for the purpose of sharing my life with you. Over the years I’ve realized that some of the best books I’ve ever read, movies I’ve watched, or songs I’ve heard were those based off of someone’s real life experience. I love heroes that make mistakes. I can identify with them. I’m also slowly learning that life is full of little things. When we look back over our time spent here on earth, what do you think we’ll remember? Vacations or degree’s we’ve earned? Promotions at work or magazine’s we’ve been published in? Or will the bulk of our memories cherish Mom’s listening ear, or the home we lived in for 30 years. How about friends that loved us and our close walk with the Lord? Memories aren’t made up of what is perfect. But I think those seemingly monotonous, unglamorous days, will produce the richest parts of our lives.
My prayer for this blog, is that, number one, I’ll actually write in it:) And number two, that it will be an encouragement to all who read it in the months to come.
My hope is that you’ll see a girl who isn’t perfect, (yep, I’m a selfish sinner too.) But who’s searching heart always brings her back to the cross of her Savior.
I know it doesn’t sound theologically correct, but I often feel like I’m being redeemed daily!
Please write to me and comment all you like on these posts. Wisdom comes from having many counselors, and you may have an insight to offer!
May the Lord bless and keep you as we both take “the road less traveled…”
In Christ,
Sarah M.
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