It was a fun conversation. Our family recently began sharing dreams, possibilities and hopes for our future. Although nothing is definite, we found it very interesting that three of us have considered graduate degrees! I commented that it would so ironic if we all graduated the same day! I can't imagine how we would handle that but what a great story for our children and grandchildren to share.
Although I already have a few undergraduate degrees, one additional degree continues to earn endless credits on my own journey. My "University of Hard Knocks" degree never seems to end in major life lessons...in all kinds of circumstances.
For example, long ago, I used to think everyone could be trusted. I was certain that no one meant any harm to another and everyone was who they appeared to be. It certainly didn't take long to learn otherwise. After that lesson was confirmed repeatedly, I began to consider the possibility that no one could be trusted. Perhaps no one was reallly what they seemed to be, either. It didn't take long to learn that this option was unfair to precious folks who consistently deserved and earned my trust. Through many experiences over the years, I have increasingly learned about trust, forgiveness, wisdom and discernment.
One of the greatest lessons I have learned in this "University of Hard Knocks" is to guard my heart. That's a tough lesson. Guarding involves watching, protecting, overseeing, defending or securing from danger. Over the years, I have been recognized, criticized and even ostracized for being an "overly protective" mom. But those opinions mean nothing to me. For I will protect what matters most to me and that certainly means my dear children and loved ones!
As I have and shall fiercely protect those I love, God wants us to guard our hearts...the hearts He created...and loves so dearly. He knows there are countless ways our hearts may be broken, distracted, deceived or destroyed. He realizes there are people like me that sometimes have to learn lessons the hard way. Yet He loves us enough to remind us...to guard our hearts...above all else. It's not a perfect world. It's not an easy journey. Oh, how I long for the day when our hearts know nothing but His loving, safe, eternal Presence. Until then....it is my prayer to keep my eyes on the One Who truly loves me and waits to welcome me Home.♥~thl
"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4: 23
No comments:
Post a Comment