I’m a slacker, I suppose after my rant I figured how could I follow that shameless post? 😉
Friday I’ll admit, I was emotionally exhausted. But God showed up as always through our blessed community. I don’t know what we’ve done to be so blessed to be surrounded by folks who unfold their arms and gather us in.
Saturday Neal and I and the boys stayed inside during the rainy day, watched two movies, wrapped gifts and enjoyed one another’s company.
Saturday night we had Neal’s company Christmas party. Had a great time getting to know the people whom Neal is surrounded by on a daily basis. One young man was particularly intriguing as he worked the room and made a great effort to get to know people.
He would ask about each one of us, what we did and make a point to bring forth a positive statement to that person about their profession. When he got to me and I told him about the non-profit he had all sorts of questions. When he realized I help BOTH men and women and it’s not based on one specific religion but that I do go off of my Christian faith he had a lot of very complimentary things to say.
Later in the evening the party carried over to our house. Again I overheard the young man lifting people up, strangers to him, in every conversation. It was impressive to hear and witness this man’s compassion in action. Earlier he had expressed interest in reading Exposed so before he left I gave him a copy. “Oh thank you so much,” he said. “I’ll admit my belief system is not in line with yours but I respect and appreciate what you are doing to help others find hope, and I appreciate you helping both men and women. Sometimes I think the men are forgotten.”
He quickly left and his comments and the interactions he had with people stayed with me as I lay my head on the pillow. He made every person feel heard, appreciated and respected. And he appreciated me because men are not forgotten. They too struggle through the effects of abuse.
I don’t know what his belief system is or what he was referring to in his last statement but I will say he will not be forgotten in my prayers.
I pray you all enjoy this weekend before Christmas. Remember all of those whom you love, may they not be forgotten.
Blessings
Shannon