Tennessee is always difficult. We have so many wonderful stories and memories--it is so much a part of us. When we're in Texas, we forget exactly what we left behind, but going back brings it all to bear all over again and then we depart, with a renewed sense of loss and a new round of goodbyes. It was hardest for me when I drove away from Mom and Dad's--not really sure when I'll get to see them again. But I know the vivid memory will fade and I will yearn a little less in the coming weeks. And I look forward to going back to work--finding my place again, remembering that we are Texans now.
We saw Narnia last week. I needed something to vividly remind me of what I sometimes leave behind--something to rekindle my hope in the kingdom that is coming. I think we all treat it like Tennessee--we forget and memory fades the longer we're away. Now and then we have a moment that brings it all back into focus and we begin to yearn all over again. Paul called it groaning. We know that this is all temporary, but sometimes it feels so final and so permanent.
There are days when I think I'm ready to cash in my birthright and chase the wind--to seek a fortune and coast. Sometimes He sends a reminder like Narnia to bring back perspective. Other times He lets me simmer awhile until I remember that I simply have no other option. As Peter said, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." If I could learn to appreciate that like I do those mountains when I see them....
11 comments:
that was a really good post. i liked it. :-).
Well, Steve, this is the third time I have tried to respond to your blog and your response to my blog. Guess what? I am severely technologically inept. Melinda put together the blog/site for me. I supply words, she designs and publishes. So, sorry if you never get this. Perhaps it will circle around in cyber-space, interfering with the orbits and trajectories of planetary objects. And more probably, it disappeared for eternity with the click of an unintended key.
Good blog you got here. Eyes to see, a great trait to have. Sometimes I stumble over or kick at the truths that cross my path. I would see those truths as well.
Again, maybe, we want you to know how God used you in Justus' life. We moved to JC when he was going into the 10th grade. We prayed and worried (confession) about what kind of friends he would find, who would influence his life. God used you to draw Justus further in and farther along in his relationship with Jesus. Your influence for Christ continues to bear fruit in his life. Thank you for the witness, love, food, time, energy you invested in him. We will always remember you and Wendy with thanksgiving for being there for him. May God bless you richly with His Spirit for HIs service and delight.
Have used your links to check on Lisa and "her husband", Murph and Tonya, Penny and Peter. REally neat. We too miss Johnson City and the friends, memories made there.
Grace, mercy and peace
wayne
why does no one use my name??? ;) hahahahah
MOoohahaaaaaa!
I am right there with you!Sweetie!
Were you this insightful when I was in RIOT? I like what your saying here. I'm Tennesseean- through and through-I love the mountains, pride, and culture, but what I miss when I'm gone are the relationships I've been blessed with. I am blessed with some very inspiring friends. Oh..Beth, a Texan through and through, says you have to renounce your Tennesseean heritage to be fully recognized as a Texan.
Not gonna happen!
you guys ok?
Steve... know that Johnson City misses you and Wendy and the girls. As time goes on our memories fade but your legacy remains... in the lessons you taught us...and you live on here in JC and everywhere when we pass on those lessons on to others.You didn't just teach your lessons you lived them out. i.e. Like investing your time in a freshman that was a little sketchy and everyone thought didn't have a chance... : ) thanks. tell teilhet you were this insightful when you were at Riot. lol ttyl
ummmm.steve....now, I'm the 10th comment - it's officially time for a new post. ;) PS - I'll get that info you emailed my to you tomorrow.
Steve!
Happened up on your post a few months ago and check up with ya here ever so often. Come on back friend, J City misses you and johnny t as well. Renounce your Tennessee heritage? What's he smoking? Email me!
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