seriously...

I'm blown away how I have come to know such caring, concerned people in my life.

Three things all my relationships with people have in common:

1. My first impression of that person was eventually done away with. (The depth to an individual's character and peculiar growth is indescribable) And whatever new impressions I form of someone are constantly challenged.

2. They made/make the effort to love me for who I am and not for what I do/did.

3. They reached out to me first... and they're much better about keeping in touch than I am.

I read a psychologist's report stating that one of the earliest, most profound realizations a person makes as a young child is that other people are not like her/him. It's that realization I make every season and in every relationship, which deepens my understanding of love. Love of people, and ultimately, the amazing love of God. While I was at the greatest distance and difference from God, He loved me anyway.

I certainly don't deserve these people or their love. Not to say that any of us are without flaws, but this is where love grows. In the realness, nastiness, frustrations, rawness and creative weakness of people - the canvas in which God paints His grace.

seriously, it's not about me...

thank GOD!