Story

Everyone has a story. Last weekend, Philip and I were in Montgomery, Alabama, for some training. While we were there, this story happened and was put into perspective:

Josiah, a 1-year-old, was sitting at lunch beside one of his Mama's friends, Marla. Josiah kept tugging at Marla's sleeve to get her attention. He finally succeeded but wasn't satisfied until Marla took his extended hand. Josiah then seemed content to finish his bottle with one hand and hold Marla's with the other hand.

Marla brought to our attention that this was the attitude and perception of someone who hadn't yet been hurt and disappointed by life. Josiah hasn't yet been disappointed by someone he loves when they make a promise they can't keep or had his heart broken when the kids on the playground don't want to play with him. Josiah hasn't had to handle the loneliness after the loss of someone dear to him nor felt duped when an un-trustworthy person has taken advantage of him.

I can't imagine anyone reading this blog not intimately understanding what I'm talking about. Which means that almost everyone you come in contact with on a daily basis has been hurt and disappointed. Some have even reached their wits end and have trouble trusting anyone at all.

Marla's illustration reminded me that everyone has a story. Most people's story involve beauty and hardship, thrilling triumph and deep agony. And yet, all of our stories began like Josiah's - void of the knocks, the disappointment, the heartache, and the pain that makes us suspicious when we want to trust and tear down when we should lift up.