Saturday, March 30

Sally Archambault2024 Lenten Devotional

THE GIFT OF MISFITS

On this journey into the “Dark Woods” we are asked to look around to acknowledge the kin-dom of family.  As I was growing up and going through college, I always had one or two best friends with whom I could share all my troubles and dreams.  Then as a young married woman, away from family and friends for the first time, I somehow became convinced that I could, and should, handle all my problems by myself.  At some point the stress became too much and I came to realize that I couldn’t handle it all.  I found that by reaching out to new friends I found people who didn’t judge me, but listened and helped me to see new ways to deal with life’s challenges.

By opening up and being vulnerable I have found that it has helped others to open up too.  These relationships have given me a chance to find real insight and validation for the choices I have made. Working through a problem with another of your “kin” is a gift for both of you.  By accepting support, you learn the gift of giving support.  My life is so rich because of the close friendships I have made over the years.  Close friends become family who support you, cheer you on, love you and are always there for you. 

Prayer:  Dear God, thank you for the chance to truly get to know others so that we never have to be alone in this world.   Amen

Bobbi Bird