Happy Friday everyone! When I was a child Friday meant that my grandfather would pull up to our house. We would run out to greet him and hear these words, “Go get your toothbrush and pajamas and slip them in the truck”. He would go inside and we would do exactly what he told us to do. When he was ready to leave, we would hear “come on kids”. There was never any resistance from us or our parents. One day he reversed things. We were at his house and he handed us 2 small bunnies to hide in the car. When they crawled out from under the seat, my mom was not thrilled. We, on the other hand, were smiling hugely!
As a teen, Fridays meant pep rallies, ballgames and sleepovers with friends. Smiles abounded. When I was a newlywed, Fridays meant working late and studying for colleges. Those two items didn’t bring a smile to my face. Parenting meant pizza and movie night on Fridays. Everyone had smiles!
Now I find myself on a Friday with my husband alone. It has been a long week with his workload and my canning fruits and vegetables. What shall we do to bring a smile to our faces? I have a plan. We will wait until it is dark. We will pack our favorite snacks. Then we will drive our truck out away from lights and watch for meteor showers. Maybe we will even snuggle and steal a few kisses. Older people are easily entertained aren’t we?
Sometimes we just need to find what makes us smile. Has your week been difficult? Stop for a moment and think about what makes you smile. Now make it happen, if that is possible. A smile on your face is read by the one you take care of. It sends a message of happiness and peace. If your week has been rough, then theirs has too. Find what makes them smile and be silly for a bit. Allow the stress and tension to escape.
I know that life can be challenging. The tension and stress are so very real. I am not suggesting you wear a mask that is smiling for you to hide behind. I am suggesting accepting that even in the midst of trials we can choose to focus on the positive. God cares about you and it is alright to let Him carry the load with you.
I pray that anyone reading this today is able to find a ray of sunshine in the clouds for a few minutes at least. The song I am sharing today is a reminder that God parts the waters for people today. Perhaps an unexpected visitor will knock on the door or a card will come in the mail to remind you that you are loved. Don’t give up hope.
Maybe you aren’t agile enough to kick up your heels, but you can pretend and smile while pretending!
Word for Today
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come to you today with praises to you for the stories we will be able to tell. You make a way for us sometimes when we see no way. You allow us to walk on the stormy waves as we keep our eyes on you.
Help us to see rest knowing you are working on our behalf behind the scenes. Help us to find reasons to smile even on the darkest days. Send friends to offer encouragement and love when we need it the most.
One day our task as a caregiver will be over and life will change. In the process of walking this out, remind us that every act of kindness and love is offered as unto you.
Amen
Walking Them Home 