The Undiscovered Country

The People in My Path

When I bought my Jeep Wrangler, I soon noticed how many other people owned Wranglers where I live. Three people own one (though of various years starting with the ‘70s) within two blocks of my house.

I know they didn’t buy theirs the same time I did. It’s more I simply took notice.

The same could be said of people I run into. Soon after Dave and I decided to try for kids, I discovered two people I knew also struggled, or were still struggling with the same. I then met a few more online and elsewhere. I still am.

It could be, like suddenly seeing Jeeps everywhere, because of my decision to have kids entered foremost in my mind, I started merely paying attention to those doing the same.

Makes me wonder once I get pregnant if I will suddenly see pregnant women everywhere.

Not one to believe in mere coincidence – where’s the fun in that? – I believe God places people in our path at specific time for a reason. It could be because they can help us when we need it most, or so we can help them when they need it most. Perhaps it’s a combination of both.

Last week’s Disciple required us to read 2 Corinthians. One passage (1:4) stuck out at me: “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When we are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

I try not to take for granted the people I know, or the people I’m still getting to know. Every person has a richness of wisdom and experience I could never gain on my own. They make me laugh when I need it, give me the right words to keep me going in difficult times, and provide a warm and cushy shoulder when I need to weep. I desire to do the same, and to share my love, my joy, and perhaps bring someone a smile or laugh who needs it.

Consider this morning. Wendy, my coworker, looked a little down. I made a few jokes, acted a little silly (normal for me), and didn’t leave her office until she laughed. She didn’t want to, but did it anyway, and afterwards stuck her tongue out at me.

My job was done.

I’ll end this strange little entry with two thank yous. First, I neglected to thank all of you for wishing Dave and I a Happy Anniversary yesterday. We did indeedy, so thank you!!

Through you, I also learned I can make people laugh. Until almost two years ago now, I believed I could appreciate good humor, but never extend it. Your responses to my entries and comments I leave for you has changed my opinion. Sure I don’t always succeed, but I try now, whereas before I didn’t. I thank you for that also.

Now go have a joyful Thursday. Don’t forget to laugh at least once, even if it’s at yourself.