The Angela Adventures

Reflections of a Mother...

More than half of my life is over, and as I look back, I can truly say that despite mistakes I've made and words I wish I had never spoken, I feel so very blessed by the fruits of my labors. Especially three pieces of priceless fruit named Michael, Sarah and Karen.

I heard a sermon once by the pastor of Park Cities Presbyterian Church, Dr. Skip Ryan. He's probably the most gifted, most eloquent speaker I've ever been blessed to hear. I love his delivery; I love his practicality; I love the way God speaks through him to pierce my heart! Anyway...he was talking about making memories, and clinging to good times with family and friends, and always looking for the next major "moment" of celebration. We human beings are continually searching and grasping for a hold onto that perfect moment before leaving this earth...not realizing that the perfect moment comes when we see Him face-to-face. The perfect home; the perfect mate; the perfect job; the perfect children; the perfect social contribution..etcetera, etcetera. Skip's words are so very true...and I find that I, too, look forward to the next "moment" in my own life.

I thought life was "perfect" when Mike married Rachel. I remember watching them walk down the aisle, share their vows of love and commitment, and then begin their young lives together. That was a "moment". I then remember Sarah suffering from a huge "life disappointment" and recovering gracefully through the sustaining love of Christ; and then receiving a Master's Degree and a job that only He could mysteriously and miraculously provide. That was another "moment". And now, I watch my youngest, Karen, prepare for her own marriage to an amazing young Christian man who I already love as a future son-in-law, and who absolutely adores my daughter...they walk their aisle in 19 days...this will be another "moment".

Skip went on to further say that one "moment" leads to another and another and another, and that as humans, we are never truly fulfilled by these "moments" and that we plan for more and more, hoping that one day we can sigh and look backwards and nod with a sweet smile of satisfaction that says..."okay, now I can rest in the joy of my memories and look forward to my future with Him". Well...obviously there was much more depth to the meaning of his sermon than I am able to express...

I must say that I feel blessed, fulfilled, and content as I look backwards in my own personal history, despite some of the tragedy I've experienced. The emotions, the satisfaction, the thrill, the heart-felt love, the sadness, the laughs and the tears that have come from my "moments" fill me with gratefulness to Him for such a rich life!

"Thank you, Lord, for the grace you gave me during the "moments" of my life...both difficult and easy...and for the "moments" you'll continue to give me and this dear family of mine! Grant me the mindset to acknowledge You in each victory, in each struggle, and in each person you place before me. Amen"