I’ve often wondered if the person who dubbed Chicago the Windy City ever visited the plains of Oklahoma.
It was particularly windy, and the rains were torrential. Dane and I were watching the thunderstorm from the comfort of our back porch. I couldn’t help but notice Christie Beakley and Duck Norris (the two Mallard ducks that make an annual appearance) as they stood soundly in the middle of the downpour.
Two things really struck me as I watched them standing there:
They were not only facing the wind, but actually leaning into it. I suppose that makes sense if you think about it. Had they turned their backs to it, the wind could have ruffled their feathers and pushed them around. Facing the storm appeared to oddly give them some control.
They stayed close together as they weathered the storm quietly and with beautiful grace.
When the storms of life come - and they ALWAYS will -
Face them head on! Don’t turn your back on the winds and allow them to overpower you!
Face them together! It is not only important for the children to see a united front, but it is important to actually BE united! Stand together quietly, patiently and gracefully just like those Mallard ducks.
Face them with God. I am suddenly reminded of Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.” The footnotes in my Bible say “An abundantly available help" … I love that!
The storm will eventually die down. (At least long enough to catch your breath before the next one assaults you.)
Whatever storm you find yourself in, whether it is a rebellious child, the latest attack of an antagonistic ex, the mayhem of step sibling rivalry or a number of other possibilities …
LEAN IN!
Until next time, Step Gracefully!
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