Scars Remember

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Knowing when to go to battle and when to call a truce is sometimes the hardest choice we make in life. Calling a truce and walking away is often easier, less costly, and sometimes the only way to get past something. We can leave it behind and never speak of it again. We can move past it and come out unscathed. But not all situations call for such avoidance and coming out unmarked and unchanged isn’t always a good thing.

When I was little (and, I must confess, even now) I loved to out daredevil the boys. Usually, it was my brother and I on our bikes trying to out do, out run, and out jump each other. One day we were out riding and, in trying to get back on the sidewalk, I over-compensated and ended up running straight into a brick wall and over it into a rose bush. Ouch! Not my finest moment but I remember two things… my trying to be tough by not crying and my brother offering to take my bike home for me so I could run home. Concrete and thorns are not kind to skin and bones.

I love the scars from that day. They showed how tough I was and that I could keep up with the boys but I love more the memory of my brother’s compassion and care. After all, he was my brother with whom I fought daily, I’m sure, but he showed me love that I’ve never forgotten.

Fighting for something you believe in is not easy. Whether you go to the battle by choice, because of a big mistake, or because of circumstances beyond your control, it’s not easy to fight. You’ll probably come out with a few scars to remind you of the hard times but what you may find because of them could be the greatest reward you never knew existed. I have one of the neatest glimpses into the heart of my brother because of that day. There were other days I felt his love but that one came with scars that helped me remember.

If you choose to engage it, life’s battles may leave scars but they also leave glimpses into the heart of God and reminders of His love.

Comments

Mamamax said…
Ok, I laughed, and I cried! You captured the essence of who you and Jon were together so perfectly. I loved remembering those times. What a wonderful way to tie a positive to the scars of your life. You challenged me to find the lessons in the pain and be thankful for the scars. Thank You! Now get out there and submitt this one! It needs to be heard by more people :)
3:17 PM
flyseller said…
YOu make me so proud.
7:25 AM
Kassie said…
Thanks mom and dad... there's nothing like having your own built in cheering squad. :)
7:39 AM
J.R. said…
that was great!
8:55 AM
Anonymous said…
Oh Kas, this was so appropreiate for where I am right now. Trying so hard to determine if the Lord wants me to turn the cheek and walk away or to stay and fight. I am so tired of being the one who is used to bring light and understanding to situations where there is so much pain and confusion. It is so much easier to keep my head down and keep moving along. However, being obedient to the Lord is greatly important to me.

I thank you for your quiet love and support of me and my family. You are a subtle warrior and I am glad to know that you are there. :)
1:08 PM
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