Sunday, February 21, 2010

Revisited

We had a very large laugh in church this morning as Joel referenced some people in our lives as being like sand paper. If y’all recall, I wrote a thought called Sand Paper in September of last year. When Joel used it, I snickered a little and thought either he is secretly ready my stuff, or I may actually know what I am talking about every now and then. Sometimes my own words revisit me in a totally different way.

After Joel’s sermon, I began mentally revisiting Sand Paper but with a whole new view. Rather than wondering why certain people come in and out my life, I began thinking a little differently. It’s immaterial as to “why” and all about “they are” in my life. The “why” comes from the pesky engineer/analyzer inside me. The real thing to focus on is the “are” in my life. After all, it is not my place to figure out the "why." The good Lord put them here for a reason, and that’s all I really need to know. To do anything else, is second guessing and all second guessing amounts to is another version of the what if game.

In grand scheme of things, does it really matter "why" someone is or has been our life? Absolutely not! They are or were there for a reason. Sometimes you are fortunate to be shown the “why” and other times you never know the “why.” Put the why aside and just remember the “are” in your life. Love your life…it’s the only one you have!

For those new to the group, I present to you, Sand Paper.

Sand Paper

I talk often about people being put in our lives for a reason, and I 100% believe we all have a purpose. There is always a lesson to be learned by or from them. I was watching Ron Carpenter the other day, and he was discussing the same topic but from a different angle. He was talking about the people in our lives that really make us question why they are there. They are sometimes annoying, sarcastic, rude, hurtful, aggravating, and just drive us crazy. He said, “…they are like sand paper that God uses to form and shape you…” I know! Some feel like belt sanders or grinders rather than sand paper. Believe it or not, they too have a reason being in our lives. They are there to help us learn and grow.

I began thinking about the various people that are currently in or have passed through my life that are or were sand paper to shape me. I decided to come up with my own little sand paper list of why I think certain types of people come in and out of our lives. I’m sure there are many other types, but these are mine.

Did you ever think the people that reached out or asked you for a shoulder when they were crying were really in your life to broaden your ability to love, feel compassion, and care?

Did you ever think that the people that broke up with you or left your life really did not leave at all, but you left them as there was a new chapter coming in your life that you could not see at the time?

Did you ever think that the people you think talk too much are really in your life to help you learn how to listen?

Did you ever think that the people you believe ask too many questions are really in your life to help you improve your communication skills.

Did you ever think that the people that asked you for a handout or hand up are really in your life to learn it’s not your place to judge?

Did you ever think that the people that pissed you off were really put there to help you work on your patience?

Did you ever think that the people that ask for your opinion are really in your life to show you that your opinion counts, you are respected, and you add meaning to their world?

Did you ever think that the people you thought were too optimistic or too good were really in your life to show you how kind and generous people are and how you should be treated?

I have a simple question. Did you ever think? Just remember we all have a purpose and reason for being in each other’s lives. Sometimes it is not always apparent while they are there, but sooner or later you will see their purpose just like they will see your purpose in their lives. Pay attention, and make a difference today.

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