Hugs

Today I was jarred into realizing how little time I spend trying to make someone else's day pleasant.  Oh, sure I work hard doing what is right and performing ministry good deeds and fulfilling the call God has placed on my life.  I give of my time and what little talent I have to teach and train young people spiritually and academically.  I prepare sermons, studying and asking for a Holy anointing so that people's hearts will be stirred and lives will be changed.

I feel that I seek and strive to do God's will and His bidding.  I'm elated that He has called me and given me opportunities that I never dreamed possible.  The publishing of my book, Generations is one example of that. 

But how often do I just pause and say or do something purposely beyond the scope of my duties and plans to make someone smile and feel good about themselves?  I mentioned being jarred into the realization that doing that would probably make me feel even better about the wonderful life God has given me.

Today we went to a fast food restaurant after church.  Our grandson, Bradley, (Bo) offered to buy our lunch.  His words, "I'll buy your lunch at a fast food place if I can go home with you--I've got $19."  What a sweetheart he is.  He's always generous and is a wonderful blessing to us.  Well we told him we'd get our own--but his thoughtfulness blessed me.

But that wasn't the jarring incident.  Bo is always giving hugs and expressing his love for us.  :)

We sat near some long-time acquaintances--actually friends, but we don't see each other often--they are busy in ministry and our paths don't cross a lot.  They were eating with some of their family.  We exchanged pleasant conversation. They got up to leave and spoke to us again as they passed our table. 

A short time after they left the restaurant--their daughter came back in and over to our table.  She put her arm around me, hugged me and said:  "You know, I've always liked you."  I'm sure my expression was surprise and delight.

Don't we all want to be liked?  I still remember Sallie Fields acceptance speech when she received an Academy Award (Oscar).  "They like me, they really like me."  She exclaimed with wonder and delight.  She was mocked and ridiculed a little for her blatant honest and transparent remark.  But, seriously--don't we all want to be liked.  And most of the time we aren't sure if we are or not. 

It was just so heart-warming to have someone tell me they'd always "liked" me.  I guess because she took the time to come back and say it--after she had already gone through the polite and expected ritual of greeting and pleasantries.  It made me feel good!  I'll never forget it.

So, with the Lord's help, I want to pay it forward and take time to express (not phony), but true feelings of love and respect to others. 

Hope you "liked" my blog and it will speak to you--as Robin's comments spoke volumes to me.