slower way was definitely inching along at a more rapid pace than Iâd realized when I was arguing my point with my husband.â
And then she noticed his way went alongside the exquisite ocean too. âHad I really been so set on winning my argument and capturing a couple extra minutes that Iâd missed the beautiful seaâa view few people get to enjoy while driving? Yes!â
Jan returned home that day a bit chagrined. She apologized to her husband for being argumentative and admitted that the moments she âwastedâ while going the longer way were priceless compared to the minutes she would have saved going her way.
Todayâs Thoughts
The farmer knows just what to do for God has given him understanding.
I SAIAH 28:26 NLT
Thank you, Lord, that when I donât know which way to turn, you point the way. And when I insist on my own way, Iâm so glad you still love me and guide me back to your way.
16
Somewhere in the Middle
Louise loved to take long, leisurely walks around the retirement complex where she lived. She was at the age of needing a bit of help though. She always carried her cell phone, but sometimes she forgot her key. It was a good thing the security guards had sets of master keys on their belts at all times. A guard would zip over in a moment when she called to say she was stranded in front of her door.
Occasionally she felt a bit wobbly on her legs, so if she needed assistance taking a shower or dressing, she could call for help. And, of course, it was nice not to have to cook anymore⦠or clean⦠or water the lawn. All those chores were taken care of by various members of the staff.
Louise also found it useful to wear an identification tag around her wrist with her name, cottage address, and her sonâs phone number in case of emergency. Overall, she was now happy and satisfied that this was the place she needed to be. She could live out her remaining days in peace and contentment and enjoy the fellowship of her two neighbors. May lived on the right, and June lived on the left.
One day while out walking, Louise suddenly realized sheâd forgotten to put on her ID tag. Oh well, Iâm not going far. Iâll just take a short stroll today , she decided. As she was walking, an older man with a huge black dog passed her on the sidewalk. The dog lunged at Louise, and she jumped back, fell down, and bumped her head. She didnât black out, but she sure felt dizzy for a moment or two.
âOh, maâam, Iâm so sorry!â The gentleman with the dog gushed his apology as he stood by her side. âI donât know what got into Blackie. Heâs usually very compliant. Please let me help you.â
Louise saw that his dog was sitting quietly now, so she took the manâs hand and got to her feet. âIâll be all right. It was just a fright.â
âLet me walk you home. I insist. Whatâs your address?â
She hesitated.
The man looked at her and then broke into a smile. âNo worries, maâam. Iâm not a kidnapper. I just want to be sure you return to your cottage safely. Please give me your address.â
By this time Louise was embarrassed. Finally she muttered, âI canât think of the number, but I live between May and June in the retirement complex around the corner.â Oh dear, he must think Iâm off my rocker! Louise laughed out loud at his funny look. âTheyâre my neighbors,â she clarified.
âAh,â the man said. âSince I donât know where May and June live, letâs play it safe and stop at the administration office. Someone there will be able to help, Iâm sure.â
Todayâs Thoughts
Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the L ORD upholds him with his hand.
P SALM 37:24
Iâm glad youâre looking out for me, dear God, or who knows what would become of me.
17
Nice Place to Be
Dottie looked forward to her familyâs visit
Douglas Niles, Michael Dobson