Approaching Thanksgiving
We sat in the circle and talked all the way around. The topic pressing each person present was— “What Is Your Family Doing for Thanksgiving?” Playing in each of our minds was the question, “What is my part in this year’s drama?”
Some shared in even and matter-of-fact tones, reminding us to keep expectations low and realistic. Some were animated and vulnerable, recognizing past wounds festering and acknowledging anxiety and dread. We discovered all of us have people who are “ hard, ” dynamics that are “strained,” and combos of the two make for “miserable” relational circumstances.
THANKSGIVING …
My place in the group has an advantage. I’m the oldest. My years of walking with the Lord are almost, not quite, as long as they have been alive. Time and experience continue to teach me to seek God’s priorities, perspective, and cover all my situations with prayer.
THANKSGIVING …
I’m the matriarch of my family now. If you come to my house, it’s my call, my control, my criteria. That’s a powerful position and a critical place of central command. I ask myself …
How will I use this precious place I’ve moved into?
What will I do with the influence entrusted to me to gather my family together?
Now is my chance to set the atmosphere, create the environment, and practice my priorities.
There are some deliberate choices to make. Will I be —
Inclusive or Exclusive
Flexible or Rigid
Relaxed or Stressed
Approachable or Defensive
Selfish or Serving
Mother or Martyr
Giving or Begrudging
Helpful or Hurtful
Compassionate or Critical
Full or Empty
When they drive away…do I want to say, “I did it!”
or
“The LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.” Psalm 118:23 (NIV)
These are my reflections on a powerful time of real conversation with a precious group of women I have the privilege of growing with and walking alongside. I love them. God is preparing them to step into the place of highest privilege and eternal influence with grace and peace that bypasses understanding and reaches far and wide into their generations as the light and life of Jesus.
