Women Who Inspire ~ The Sisterhood

(I wrote this post eighteen months ago but when I came across it today I had to share it again. I had completely forgotten this moment of seeing beauty. I hope it touches your heart as much as it did mine!)

Sister - (from dictionary.com)
adjective
12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old,some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:

I didn't have time to get my regular Tuesday post up. Initially I was just going to let it pass and pick back up next week. And then I saw her. My heart was moved, throat constricted, eyes puddled. I had to name her beauty, I wish I had a picture to show you. Instead I'll use my words.

Our family was sitting at a table in the mall food court happily munching Chick-fil-a, our Tuesday night ritual. When she walked up, or should I say stumbled, small hand clasped by her daddy's larger one. She must have been about eight or nine. Two tight plastic braces encased her legs up to the knee and disappeared into blue sneakers. They sat at an adjacent table, backs to us. Her honey colored braids perched high on her head, one with a pink band the other green. A pair of little glasses were set on her small nose, held in place by a strap.

She looked at him sideways for help and conversation, sometimes with a sweet smile. A smile that made my heart ache. My completely perfect daughter, with ringlet hair, strong legs, brilliant blue eyes, saw her. Her little hand pointed, "Look at that friend mommy, she's so pretty!" I could contain it no longer, the tears fell, out of compassion for one girl and pride in another. One beautiful and the other recognizing it!

They finished their meal and her daddy pulled her up with his strong hand and helped her walk. I watched them leave, her golden braids swinging with her lopsided lope. My heart breathed a prayer. "Father, sing a song of beauty over her life. When other's taunt or jeer, protect her fragile heart and the beauty hidden inside by your love." Today I saw beauty in her eyes and I'm better because of it. But what delights me most is so did my daughter.

Have you seen beauty in unexpected people lately?

Women Who Inspire ~ The Sisterhood

Sister - (from dictionary.com)

adjective 

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.
13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that have lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family. A gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life as well.)

This week's sister:

It has been over a year since I've written in this series about sisters. I thought it was time to bring it out and dust it off. 

Today's sister is Carol Matthews. Dr. Matthews was my psychology professor in college. Looking back over fifteen years I imagine at the time she wasn't older than I am now. With long golden hair, trim figure, and pleasant smile she stood out from the other professors at school, mostly older men in suits. I admired Dr. Matthews. She was soft spoken, clever, and funny. 

There's an encounter with Dr. Matthews that will always stand out to me as one of the most powerful conversations of my young life at the time. It taught me the weight of words and of other people's expectations. I wrote down her words in my journal, I wish I knew where it was to reference, but I remember the basics of the conversation.  

It was during an interviewing for a school newspaper article, I don't even remember the story now. I felt that I had let her down academically on a recent test and my response had not been gracious. So I began our conversation with an apology. She stopped me and made it clear that there wasn't a problem between us. In fact she went on to say, "I expect you to go on in life and do great things. I have taught hundreds of students every year. I can't remember them all and only a handful ever standout. You're one of them. I expect to hear you have done great things."

I was flabbergasted, and so blessed. I have never forgotten the gift of her statement. When I quit school and felt like a failure, when I worked part time at an oil refinery in Pennsylvania, when I lived in the basement of friends with just enough to make ends meet, I remembered those words. I wanted to live up to them, to make them a prophecy that became a reality.

As I've matured I've realized that the definition of great things can change. What I thought was a great thing at 19 and what I think of as a great thing now are very different. I don't know what Carol Matthews had in mind when she spoke such a benediction of encouragement over me. But I did learn that when we speak belief, hope, and high expectation over someone they will yearn to live up to it. 

I wish I could thank Dr. Matthews all these years later for encouraging an awkward, inexperienced girl. I doubt she would remember me now. But I imagine an appropriate thanks would be to seek out opportunities to do the same with my words for others. 

Has there been someone in your life who spoke words of hope or blessing, encouragement or belief over you that have made a difference to your heart? I'd love to hear about it!

Words ~ A Life-Giving Fountain

"I used to think the words spoken about us describe who we are, but now I know they shape who we are." Bob Goff, "Love Does"

Words that have changed me.
Notice which one is just under the Bible.

I've been reading Bob Goff's amazing book, Love Does, for a few days now. It is impacting how I see things, what I feel, my capacity for believing the impossible. Words do that.

I love words. Spoken and written. I'm a talker, a writer, a dreamer. I always have been. It's a gift, except when it's not. Words are powerful, they can shape a person's image of themselves, impart hope, explain beautiful truths and draw others to God.

But words also have the power to destroy. We all know that, we've been on the backside of words flung from a careless mouth that cut to the bone. That's when words are more of a curse than a blessing.

I've been shaped and encouraged by words, and I'm thankful. The words of people who love me have guided and comforted. The Word revealed in the Bible, God sharing his heart with us on paper, is more of a gift than I can fathom.

There are books too, written by men and women who's hearts are on fire, the words blaze off the page and into mine. I'm so grateful, I will never be the same because of the words they've shared. There are several that come to mind immediately.

One of those books is Susie Larson's "The Uncommon Woman". I've read it three times in the last few years and shared it with numerous friends. Her vulnerable, passionate words changed how I saw Jesus and his church. They made me fall in love all over again. But what's even more remarkable is the gift she's given to me personally.

About a year ago I wrote a post and asked if she would share it on her blog. She did! The people in the next county over heard about it that night, all the way from the front porch! For a year or so I've commented on her blog or facebook page and she has responded graciously, personally, warmly, to my comments. Of course she does that with the other women and men who leave comments for her, but that doesn't matter, somehow for a moment I feel heard and valued.

What Susie probably doesn't even realize, but I'm acutely aware of, is the power of her words to speak life, to launch a dream, to cast a vision. Why is that, why does she have such power? I believe it's because people like myself have recognized the influence of the Holy Spirit in her life. In a way we're not just hearing what Susie Larson thinks when she speaks to us, we're hearing from God.

That realization got me thinking. What if we all thought of our words as a sacred trust? What if we all realized that we have the power to speak words of life and death, to kill a heart or resurrect a dream? What if we were so in tune with Jesus and the truth of scripture that people, our children and husbands, our co-workers and neighbors, our friends and enemies, heard the voice of God when we spoke?

"The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions." Proverbs 10:11

What do you think? Do words have that kind of power? Have you experienced life giving words from another, how about life killing words? Do you use your words as a sacred trust, offering life and hope? 

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)

adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.) 

This week's sister:

I've put of writing about my sister for weeks. How do you write one meaningful, concise post about someone who is your spiritual as well as biological sister. The memories, experiences, and hard conversations are, mostly, too personal to splash across the web. I'm all for transparency but the internet has limits to the laying bare of the inner sanctuary of a family, at least for me.  

Yet I could in no way leave Stephanie out of the list of sisters who have touched my life. Four years my junior she has been in every way, from the beginning, my opposite. No doubt that difference has lead to missed opportunities for shared moments, and misunderstanding. God is wise, he gives gifts, and I've come to see that difference as one of them.

Me and Stephanie with our children almost three years ago.

My mom has always said that God puts families together just the way he wants them. Years later I believe that's true. The hard rub between sisters has made us softer, bent our heads lower and produced grace. I would never have the understanding or compassion I'm growing to embrace without the relationship I've had with Steph. 

She's stretched me to see a point of view I wouldn't otherwise embrace or consider. For someone as dogmatic as I've tended to be, that is truly a gift. Seeing yourself reflected in your sisters eyes is like a brisk salt rub, stinging and cleaning out wounds, healing, good for the soul.  

It's been a steep climb, a leaning into the wind, from childhood until now. But God has so graciously united. Friendship has blossomed through commonality and difference. I'm grateful. 

One of my greatest joys now is seeing our two girls play together. Six months apart they are opposites in every way! My prayer is for them to rub each other soft, love each other long, and be better because of their relationship when all is said and done. 

Maggie and Willow, sweet cousins

I love sharing motherhood, funny stories, and Jesus with my sister. What a gift!

How about you, how has God used your biological sister(s) to mold you? If you don't have any how has he provided spiritual sisters? If your relationship with your biological sister(s) is wounded I pray that God's healing grace binds up those wounds and restores.

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.) 

This week's sister:

In honor of my 13th wedding anniversary this week I thought I'd tell a story of how God used sisters to bless my wedding day. God gave me a gift, offered right from his hand and the packaging was these sweet sisters.

As an eight year old one of my best friends was Karen Sursavage. Her mother Mary is a sweet North Carolina woman, with a soft drawl as welcoming as a rocking chair on a front porch. I was at their house as much as my own back then. But the current of life shifted our family's and we lost touch.

Several months before my wedding my Mom encountered Mary at an out of town ball game. Sitting in the bleachers watching kids play ball they caught up with each other. Mom mentioned I was engaged and Mary shared that Karen was recently married. In relaying the conversation to me, Mom mentioned that Mary had offered the use of Karen's wedding dress if I was interested. Though sweet, I thought it an odd offer and dismissed it.

As young women do, I had plans for every detail of the anticipated day. A little scrapbook held ideas and magazine clippings of my favorite cakes, dress, party favors, invitations and more. Most brides also know the reality of limitation when planning for a wedding, the big one being cost. As my budget reached it's limit I remembered the offer of my friend's wedding dress.

Taking a last look at the designer dress edged in pearls cut and pasted in my scrapbook, the only dress I had wanted, I swallowed my pride. I called my Mom and asked her to tell Mary I was interested in Karen's dress, would she please find out the size and maybe get a picture of it.

The next time I was home my Mom handed me an envelope, it was from Mary. I plopped down on my bed and poured out the handful of pictures. The moment I saw them tears filled my eyes. Calling my Mom I pulled out my scrapbook. Opening to the page with my dream dress, I laid the pictures side by side. A perfect match!

I was overwhelmed! That God would care to arrange such a detail for me! Though one of my favorite passages, I had never been able to grasp the concept of Zephaniah 3:17. "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

Rejoice over me with singing? God? Really? In that moment I felt rejoiced over, delighted in. A Father to his child, giving a gift. All these years later I'm encouraged that the God who provided not a wedding dress, but the wedding dress, is still the God who provides for all of my needs.

I'm so thankful for those generous friends, sharing something so special, they were God's hands stretched out to me. How has God lavished kindness on you, showing he delights in you?

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:

I've  met few women with such clarity and wisdom in my life as Julie Conley. As a young pastor's wife in a challenging church ministry, Julie was a God send, literally. Her husband was in a leadership position in our church's denominational district. Graciously they walked through a difficult season with us, leading, praying, bringing peace.  

Julie was my first real life, adult mentor. Her skill at finding the pulse of a situation and drawing out truth amazed me. Ten years later I look back out our conversations and prayer times and realize more than ever the skill she had as a mentor.

Her warm eyes would twinkle as she talked about Jesus, you could tell she was in love. That love spilled out on me, infectious. Her response to problems, prayer. She was bold in faith as she approached her Heavenly Father with requests, and humble in her need. 

I often came to her befuddled, a vague sense about a situation but lacking clarity. She asked me questions, shared her experiences and gradually the light would dawn. There were moments I was frustrated she didn't just answer my question or give me the solution I sought. But I became used to her way of leading me to the truth instead of just telling me. 

Now I attempt to model her wisdom of leading a woman's heart to the truth instead of answering her basic questions. Though our contact is sporadic and limited by time and distance Julie still influences me. I remember her questions and that at the heart of it all she was leading me to the truth of a Person and not just a solution to a problem. How thankful I am for her influence in my life!

How are you doing in this area? When a young woman, a  friend, or your children come to you with a struggle do you give them a pat answer to a problem? Or do you help flesh out the real issue leading, by insightful questions, to the person of Jesus?

{I write more about this in my ebook Sister to Sister; A Mentor's Handbook. Download your copy here for free}

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:
I've wrestled with writing about this week's sister. Mostly because while highlighting her generosity it exposes my neediness. But I'm compelled to share her story of kindness in hopes we may all be encouraged to be more giving people, especially myself.

My family moved in with Terry, and her husband Mike, almost seven years ago. My son Max was eighteen months at the time, when we moved out he had just turned 3; Maggie was merely a dream. We lived with them for eighteen months as we searched for God's plan and work for us. God answered and we served for four years in ministry in Wyoming.

Five months ago, after our ministry ended, we moved back in with Terry and Mike. Now a family of four, we take up a lot of space, the entire basement as a matter of fact. It's a humbling position to be in.

Home is a big deal to women, and if you've read my blog for long you'll know, it's a really big deal for me. Our earthly home echos our heavenly home, it speaks of security and belonging. I don't have a home right now, my children don't either, and we feel it.

But Terry (and Mike, but I'm writing about sisters here) shared her home with us. You don't get much more personal than a home, to me that's amazing generosity! She gives us space, shares everything, plays with my kids, loves us. Maggie adores Terry (and Mike) she follows her around like a little shadow!

How do you thank some one who has offered such kindness? I can't. I praise God that in his mercy he shows compassion and I want to live with humble generosity in response.

Have you been humbled by someone else's generosity in your life? How did you respond?

Terry and Maggie enjoying Lakeside together

{Don't forget to come back tomorrow for the Sister to Sister link up where we share words of encouragement with our online sisters. Hint, tomorrow's prompt so you can be thinking ahead is: Freedom}

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:
Words can mark us for good or bad. Years ago I had a professor in college use her words to inspire me. Dr. Matthews was a professor of psychology. She was tall and blonde, looking back I realize she was young, though at the time I didn't think so. I respected her, what she said mattered.

One day I was interviewing her for an article in the school newspaper. I don't even remember what the article was about now. As we were finishing up the interview and had moved on to personal conversation she said something I will never forget. She said essentially, "I teach hundreds of students and every so often one stands out among them as special. You stand out to me and I expect you to do great things." Wow! I was so moved and encouraged by her words. More than anything else I wanted to live up to them.

I don't know if she said that to all of her students, I wanted to believe she didn't. I also don't really know what she saw in me at the time. What matters is over the years those words have come back to me. I remember her powerful words of confidence and belief, focused on me. I have measured myself by them and question if I have lived up to them. Those words have pushed me to take risk, to try harder, to raise the bar. I am better because her words have nudged me to be better.

How do you use your words? Do you speak words of favor, belief, hope, life, courage, truth into other people's lives? Or do your words weigh down with criticism or negative feelings? How can you use your words today to lift another's heart?

{If you would like more tips on how to influence the lives of young women download a free copy of my ebook Sister to Sister; A Mentor's Handbook today!}

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood (late)

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister: 
With the debut of my ebook and traveling all day yesterday I didn't have time to get my regular Tuesday post up. Initially I was just going to let it pass and pick back up next week. And then I saw her. My heart was moved, throat constricted, eyes puddled. I had to name her beauty, I wish I had a picture to show you. Instead I'll use my words.


Our family was sitting at a table in the mall food court happily munching Chick-fil-a, our Tuesday night ritual. When she walked up, or should I say stumbled, small hand clasped by her daddy's larger one. She must have been about eight or nine. Two tight plastic braces encased her legs up to the knee and disappeared into blue sneakers. They sat at an adjacent table, backs to us. Her honey colored braids perched high on her head, one with a pink band the other green. A pair of little glasses were set on her small nose, held in place by a strap. 


She looked at him sideways for help and conversation, sometimes with a sweet smile. A smile that made my heart ache. My completely perfect daughter, with ringlet hair, strong legs, brilliant blue eyes, saw her. Her little hand pointed, "Look at that friend mommy, she's so pretty!" I could contain it no longer, the tears fell, out of compassion for one girl and pride in another. One beautiful and the other recognizing it!


They finished their meal and her daddy pulled her up with his strong hand and helped her walk. I watched them leave, her golden braids swinging with her lopsided lope. My heart breathed a prayer. "Father, sing a song of beauty over her life. When other's taunt or jeer, protect her fragile heart and the beauty hidden inside by your love." Today I saw beauty in her eyes and I'm better because of it. But what delights me most is so did my daughter.


Have you seen beauty in unexpected people lately?

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister: 
I'm on vacation with my family this week. We're enjoying some much needed time with extended family. This week I'm taking some time off from blogging. 

So let me hear from you. Many times, my dear blog friends, your words encourage me. Will you share in the comments below a brief story of a 'sister' that has uplifted your heart? Pour out your beautiful words. Perhaps it was a family member or friend, a teacher or coach that has shown love, honor her. Who is it that you are grateful for?

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:
Some people have an aura of holiness around them, at least it appears that way to me. I've met very few people that's true of, but Sarah Wright was one of them. She was very old when I met her. Stooped and small with white fluffy hair, she gave the impression of a delicate blossom. I met Ms. Wright when I was just beginning my journey into the teen years. She made an impression on me that shaped my view of a life of service.

Ms. Wright never married. Instead as a young woman she had moved to Mississippi to teach Bible, in public schools. It was at a time in the deep Bible-belt south that you could get away with that kind of thing. When she was done teaching she had stayed. Though no longer a teacher, she was still a worker; encouraging, and praying. My mom has always said that Miss Wright, "went around the world without ever leaving her chair." Sitting in her tiny apartment she prayed all day, for children she had taught in school, for missionaries, for me. Ms. Wright explained that she would pray for about twenty minutes, take a little break, and then pray some more. With so much time lingering in the presence of God the aroma of heaven clung to her.

The year I was fourteen I went on a missions trip to Europe. I asked Ms. Wright to pray for me while I was away, she delightedly agreed. Always asking with pointed interest how my preparations for the trip were going when she saw me. I know while I was away she prayed for me, regularly, probably daily. That mission trip changed my life, as is often the case with mission trips. I credit Ms. Wright with a large portion of the change though, because her prayers helped till the soil of my heart, making it soft and ready for truth.

When our family left Mississippi Ms. Wright was still sitting in her chair praying around the world. She has since left to talk to Jesus face to face. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matt. 5:3) I suspect one day we will see the power of prayers going out from an armchair to touch the world.


Have you been impacted by someone whose faith seemed larger than life? How did knowing them change you?

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:
Once upon a time there was a girl, living in the deep south, walking barefoot in the summer. She lived with her parents, brother and sister in an old farmhouse the color of fresh churned butter. The girl loved people and animals, especially her calico cat, but was awkward and at times graceless. Her mother said she was like a "bull in a china shop" and she was. Home-schooled, her friendships were limited. Life was good but at times lonely.


God gives good gifts and just as he had given a kitty to comfort, he gave a friend to love. Erin was a confident and kind girl, privileged and generous. A southern girl, with roots as deep as a live oak, in compassion she spread the branches of her friendship to include. I was the awkward girl and my heart will never forget Erin's tenderness to me. Her family had a beautiful barn with show horses, a family pony, and a big red horse that was a child's pet. Happy hours were spent in that barn, confidence instilled, acceptance poured out. The horses did as much good as the friend.


Erin's family embraced me, an adolescent girl with few social graces, as part of their clan. I joined them for family dinners and family vacation. Their graciousness and generosity have marked my life. I can't think about Erin or her family without deep emotion. I've long since moved, many times, but oh how I wish I could thank them. I wish I could tell Erin the impact her sister love has had, instead I pray God's richest blessing overshadows her life.


Did you have a childhood friend that encouraged, offered you love? How did that shape your life?

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister: 
She was coated in a caramel, black, soft brown and creamy white coat. A good mouser, loud purrer, nap taker. Phern, for years, was my best friend. The little calico, along with her tuxedoed companion, wandered up the day before our move. For two days we searched the neighborhood for their owners, finding none, we claimed them. For eleven years she stayed with me.

I realize Phern doesn't fit the above description of sister in the strictest sense. However, she certainly was a gift, she accompanied my quiet time with Jesus and I was blessed by her love. Actually, Phern was better than many people I've known and taught me a great deal. She lived out fully what she was made to be. Tender and gentle, she was the best cat I've ever known, and I've known some. Phern was the picture of compassion. Hearing me cry during my adolescent and teen years she would come down the hall, calling me, jump on the bed, nuzzle my face, lick my tears and settle down in my lap purring loudly. She offered me herself. Less like a stand-offish independent cat, she was more like a mother. If I was out of her sight for too long she would call me, chortling as a mother cat would for her baby's. 


There are moments in my life, looking back, that clearly are accented by a God gift. My dear Phern girl was one of them. I've always been touched that God saw a girl needing extra love and sent a friend. I met Phern when I was eleven. Loving me until I was raised and gone, she died a month after I was married. Heart sick, I grieved her for a long time. Even now tears rise, unbidden. 

Interestingly, for years I've had dreams about Phern at important, painful, distressing times of my life. When my children were born I had dreams about her, during some moves, in my most lonely times, she's sashayed into my dreams. I don't know if deep in my mind I'm looking for comfort, casting back to those vulnerable years when she soothed my young soul. Or, if God is reminding me, he's the one who sees my hurts and gives good gifts. Either way, I'm always glad to see her again, a sweet ache all at once.


Her familiar, furry memory visited me last night. I hold to the knowledge that God has seen me before and he sees me now. He knows my need. He's the God who is here with me, giving good gifts. Phern reminds me once again.

istock photo

Have you had a pet that provided comfort during a particularly hard time? Or perhaps God has given you a specific gift, reminding you of his love? I'd love to hear about it.

Women who Inspire: The Sisterhood

Sister -  (from dictionary.com)
adjective

12. being or considered a sister; related by or as if by sisterhood: sister ships.

13. having a close relationship with another because of shared interests, problems, or the like.

I have been undeniably blessed by precious women in my life. Some close family, some that lived before my time, some have rubbed me hard smoothing away jagged edges, some young, some old, some who know my heart deeply and still love me, some I've never met. But all sharing a common relation, fellowship birthed from the blood of Jesus. Sweet family, a gift. These women have so energized my Christian walk I just had to introduce some of them to you. (I hope you will post a comment and tell me about the women who have blessed your life.)

This week's sister:

I knew the first moment I saw her I wanted to be friends. Warm smile, heart opened wide to listen; I settled in to be known. Julie and I met in circumstances, over four years ago, that forged us together as true sisters. Our husbands served together in ministry. We bent our heads together over that work, joining our hearts with their hands to serve. God had just begun to teach me more deeply about prayer, of it's power and necessity. When Julie and I met I had no idea the journey into the heart of God we were about to take together.

Until I prayed with Julie, I had never imagined the intimacy and power of prayer. Simple, needy mommies walking reverently into the throne room of God. The need overcoming the fear, his love blotting out our doubt. Some days I wept openly, the sweetness of Jesus with us was more than I could handle. Hands clasped tightly, week after week we came, hungry for more. Weeks passed and then months, now we're counting in years.

Both of our family's have moved on and distance separates. Yet, unwilling to give up an audience with Mercy's ear, we now join hearts through clasped phone receivers. In the time we've been praying together truth has been boring a hole into my heart and making a home. I am different, new. I will pray with my friend as long as I have breath to, a necessity as powerful as air.

I've learned and been blessed by more than prayer in our relationship. I've come to know vulnerability and trust, accountability and tenderness. Our times together are always sweet. Very often God teaches us truths that parallel and we learn together in anticipation. How dearly my Father loves me to give such good gifts as these. I am overwhelmed at the grace he has poured out through relationships in my life.


Do you have a sister to pray with? If not I challenge you to ask God for such a gift, I did. He will provide. Perhaps he would have you step out and draw someone in with you, offering your hand to hold as you stand before God in prayer.