True Beauty

I read something today that inspired me.

I read all the time…usually, not for long periods of time right now, as this season of my life doesn’t really allow for that. Still, there are times when I will come across something that inspires me, causes me to think, shows me the simple, yet beautiful things of life.

No matter where we are in life, or under what circumstances…we can have beauty in our life. For those of you that think I am talking about a make-over that includes fashionable attire and a new haircut…um, no. Not that makeovers aren’t great, just not where I am heading with this. True beauty is much more than the physical. Those that possess true beauty are rare. Their beauty is exquisite, not because of flowing hair or perfect teeth. Their beauty comes not from the outside, but from the inside. Oh, you’ll know her when you see her. You’ll be drawn to her. You won’t be able to take your eyes off of her. Not because she looks like a Vogue model, but  because she understands that real beauty can’t be bought. It can only be given away.

When a mother looks deeply into her child’s eyes and says, “I am so glad you are my child. What fun and adventure you have brought into my life. I love you more than you’ll ever know.”—and the child knows the beauty of words.

When a wife wraps her arms around her husband and kisses him for no reason in particular— the man knows the beauty and importance of physical touch.

When a daughter shares memories with her mother… pieces of her heart…—the  mother knows the beauty of remembering.

When she takes time to listen a friend, with her full attention, no distractions….- and the friend knows and understands the beauty of being heard.

When someone takes time to hold a hand, or comfort the hurting… the one in pain knows the beauty of compassion.

When a woman, instead of arguing, chooses to instead hold her tongue…she shows the beauty of self control.

When she takes the time to build relationships and share her faith…the people she touches know the beauty of courage.

Each of us struggles. Most of us, everyday. But working on being beautiful is never a vain attempt.

Being beautiful is hard work. Not for the weak, or the self absorbed. Not for someone afraid of getting dirty, or someone who is scared.

Beauty takes it’s toll over the years.

Though the outside appearance might fade with age, a true beauty will have, over all those years maintained her heart. As she looks in the mirror may she see not what the world sees….but, what God sees…for He looks on the heart.

May our hearts be beautiful to Him.

Summertime, Summertime, Sum..Sum..Summertime

Aaahhh……..I’m now sitting at my desk, having just poured myself a nice tall glass of iced tea. Yes, I know sweet tea is not as healthy as ice cold water. Yeah, yeah, yeah…I consider it my vice. Out of all the horrible habits I COULD have…sweet tea is probably low on the totem pole, so to speak. With that said, now on to my blog for the day.

Even though I can’t stand the humidity, and the bugs drive me crazy…there is something about the summertime that I love. I think it is the whole casual, laid back attitude of the season. The less scheduled times, the outdoor grilling, tan skin, and laying in the hammock. The smell of fresh cut grass, kids camps, swimming pools, visiting with friends, and lightening bugs. Summer requires one to slow down.

Life is so hectic most of the time. If you are anything like me, there are days when you are so insanely busy that you don’t have time to sit still, much less relax. So much to get done, so little time. That is why summer time is a gift. A gift of slowing down. Really, life needs to have moments where we contemplate what is really important. What really makes our lives worth living……and spend time doing those things. Don’t take for granted an impromptu game of Frisbee, water gun fights, evening walks, or eating  hot dogs grilled to perfection, shared with people you love. All small things. Not expensive, not high tech, very simple.

Simple… That is the joy of summer time.