mirrored

I know so many amazing women. I love listening to their stories, crying with them, encouraging them, praying over them...it really makes my heart smile. Even though women are broken, battered and bruised the Lord has given me, what I believe to be, a gift to see them as He sees them. The stories that these women are often so ashamed of are the very stories that soften my heart and remind me that the Lord's got this precious gem in His hands.

Sadly, I do not view men the same way. Over the past months the Lord has been revealing my judgmental attitude towards them. Once I feel that a man has "failed" at something I write him off my list...putting him in the "no" category. I have unrealistically high expectations for men. For some reason the idea that failure equates lack of spiritual depth, leadership and strength has been imprinted into my mind. I know, you're probably giving me a dirty look through the screen. Don't worry, I have been convicted of this attitude and have actually started seeing the image of the Father in the men around me--the same men I'd already put enthusiastically into the never category. Now let me share some of these beautiful revelations:

*Protection--the strength of a strong arm who steadies my step so I won't slip.
*Strength--living out convictions.
*Leadership--taking the initiative to pray over a circumstance rather than discuss facts or complain.
*Love--surrounding a brother in a time of need.
*Compassion--offering an understanding smile to my tears.
*Wisdom--speaking truth in love.
*Understanding--participating simply because it's something I enjoy.

I'm so humbled by this new revelation, and have enjoyed seeing my brothers through the eyes of the Father.

blessed

It's time to count my blessings.

I'll narrow them down to 11 since it's the 11th, (clever, I know)

I'm so grateful



11. I'm completely debt free--I have been since I sold my house in Dec. Still feels good.

10. My health--I haven't been sick since I moved back to CO, not even with the sniffles!

9. My job--I get paid to meet folks, hear their stories and pray with them.

8. Team--I work with amazing, supportive men and women.

7. Coffee Shops--I love coffee and cozy atmospheres. Plenty to choose from in Ft. Collins.

6. Growth--My heart is being softened in ways I never thought possible.

5. Mountains--I get to enjoy the Rocky Mountains every single day!!

4. Being Active--I love being outdoors. Skiing, hiking, running, biking, love them all.

3. Missionary Barista--that's right, I'm a barista!

2. Church--Found one! Getting involved and connected makes me smile.

1. Friends--I've met some incredible people! I ♥ friends!

There's so much more to be grateful for, but I'll save those for another time.

What are you grateful for today?