The Back Page
By Sue Ferguson
It is July 2nd, and I am writing the summer edition of the back page. My weather app says it currently feels like 40 degrees. It's not bad enough that the thermometer says 32 degrees. They want us to know that it actually feels like 40, so they include that little tidbit in the forecast. I feel a bit like Goldilocks with the porridge lately. Last week was a bit too chilly, and this week is a bit too hot. When will the weather be just right? How can we find contentment in this ever changing climate?
For me, seeing our friends living out on the street in this weather, I find myself quite content with a roof over my head and having just had a new air conditioning unit installed. We are lucky. I also have an air conditioned vehicle that takes me to my job every day, or to the grocery store where I have money to buy food for our family. Fortunately, I am not afflicted with an addiction or a serious mental health challenge either, and should I feel the need to talk to someone, I have the freedom and feel empowered to speak with my Father in Heaven at any time about anything at all with no judgement. Thanks be to God for that.
I met a 22 year old guy recently visiting with a family friend from Iowa. His name is Isaiah, and he is 7 feet tall and has size 17 shoes. He is likely headed for stardom in the NBA or overseas. The amazing thing about him is that he is on fire for God. He told me that he feels God gave him his abilities and talents to work for the glory of God. “All for His glory” he said. I was so in awe of this guy. You can't help but stare at him, and everywhere he goes, he has all kinds of people who want to have their picture taken with him. You need only talk to him for a minute to know his heart. He has the ability to influence a lot of people, and he is not one of those “angels in disguise.” You can't miss him. I wonder what God has in store for him.
I wonder what God has in store for all of us this summer. There are many things ahead including a trip to Alberta for our family to see Kaitlyn compete in the National Games. There will be wedding celebrations of love and also celebrations of life.
My friend Rachel is amazing at sending out inspirational thoughts and quotes that she finds. I will share the latest one with you here written by a New York Times best selling author Mel Robbins.
July
- Watch more sunsets.
- Take the PTO.
- Read instead of scrolling.
- Visit somewhere new.
- Say yes to the dinner plans.
- Rest without earning it first.
- Wear what makes you feel good.
- Enjoy dessert without guilt.
- Be intentional with your attention.
- Start before you feel ready.
- Celebrate someone's good news.
(In case you are wondering as I was, what PTO is, it is paid time off.)
I love the simplicity of these thoughts, and I think if we just follow a few of them we will be living much more in the moment. I pray for you a summer filled with happiness and hope.
Follow Mel's July instructions if you feel adventurous, and most importantly, stay close to God. Pray often in your wins and in your losses too. Be grateful for the 40 degree days by remembering the minus 40 degree days. Look for the Isaiahs on your day to day outings, and find grace and be grateful in all things.
