Walking about town in the rain this afternoon.
From First We Have Coffee, autobiography of Margaret Jensen:
"Mama sensed my distress. Tenderly she placed her arms around me and quietly, but firmly, reminded me that we had prayed for shoes. God answered, not the way we think is best, but God heard and answered. Mama never allowed sympathy to obscure a deeper lesson.
Mama continued, "Pride is a terrible thing, Margaret. It is not so important what we put on our feet, but it is important where our feet go. Sometimes we have to put on hard things--like the shoes--so God can keep our feet on the right path. If you worry more about how you look than what you are, you will have many lessons to learn. Someday you will look back and say that this was an important lesson to learn. Remember this: God always answers prayer, but not always your way. Wear your shoes with a thankful, humble heart. Shall I tell you the secret to happiness?"
"Oh yes, Mama."
As she gathered me in her arms and stroked my hair she whispered softly, "A thankful heart, Margaret. A thankful heart."
* * *
It's true!
"All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful." ~Psalm 25:10
Happy to see you in my Google Reader. And blessed to read this thoughtful reminder. thank you.
ReplyDeleteSusan, and *I'm* happy to see you here! Yes, it is so key, isn't it, and it's good to remind ourselves. . .
DeleteOuch. Thanks, Susan! Really.
ReplyDeleteOh, Laura, you do so well with this. . .
DeleteNot yesterday, I didn't! A little better today.
DeleteOne of my very favorite books and that is such a good passage...thank you for the reminder.
ReplyDelete~Michele
I was really touched by this simple book when I first read it, Michele. Still am. I'm glad you like it, too. :-)
DeleteOh good, another good book recommendation! :)
ReplyDeleteIt's a very sweet, simply told story, Silvana. It's a tribute of love to the author's wonderful mother. Wisdom in the book comes easily and naturally without feeling contrived or didactic. I think the book is touching and affecting. It reminds me of the kind of people and attitude I grew up around.
Delete