Thursday, November 15, 2012

Answered Prayers & Friendship

God hears prayers.  God hears prayers and answers them without me even remembering for what—or for who—I prayed.

Like tonight, I met my two friends at Target.  Both of these girls have incredibly blessed my life, maybe without even knowing it.

This summer we were able to spend some time together, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know each girl a little more.

One I have gotten to know more deeply, her presence in my life being a major blessing in itself.  She listens to me.  She laughs with me.  She loves music just as much as I do.  One of my favorite memories is just walking with her on the beach and just knowing exactly where her heart was at, because mine was there, too.  It was nice to have someone know where you are without them having to sympathize, because they, instead, empathize.  Since that day, I just feel safe with her and know that God has her heart and she is led by Him, and because of this, I love her even more.
The second is always incredibly sweet, having a huge smile on her face at any given time.  So fashionable and friendly one cannot not love her.  Her dedication to her family is amazing to me, and something I admire so much.  I really began to respect her in a deep way when I listened to her speak openly about her dating life, and felt even more inspired by her, because without the guidance or structure of an official one year challenge, she kept from dating, learning about her self—her single self and loving herself through God’s eyes.  She wasn’t blinded thinking being single is automatically better or easier.  She knew there would be just as much to learn as being in a relationship with someone.

Just spending an hour with these two lightened my heart.  We spent time searching for perfect gifts for a three year-old girl.  I hated having to cut out evening short, but I had already made plans to meet another friend for dinner.

This friend has been with me throughout the challenge.  She had a challenge of her own, and she both surprised and inspired me along the way.  She blew me away, and shame on me for underestimating her ever.  I remember stumbling along in the beginning, hoping that both of our walls would come down.  I remember spending Christmas with her, eating Chinese.  I remember coming home from California and her spirit having changed so, so, so much.  I remember the sweet card she gave me at the end of her challenge and being reassured that she was still there with me.  And now, I am still so appreciative of her, and am so proud of her every day.

All the people who are special to me, I don’t get to see them every day.  That’s what happens when you become an adult.  Life becomes busy—too busy.  And I spend life making plans to make plans to see people I love.  And though our time is short and in between, the moments we have warm my heart to no end and give me a clearer view of God’s love for His children.

God has brought amazing people into my life, and I want to take a moment to praise Him for the people He has given me, for the love He has shown me, and for the surprises He sends my way.

I love you, God.  Thank you for these sisters.  Your daughters are absolutely amazing.