Moments I cherish include times I’m learning from another.
On the eve of turning 40 I had the pleasure of attending an Ash Wednesday
service where I learned much from Pastor Lanette’s message, “In the
Wilderness.” Before delivering this message she shared the scripture story of
Jesus’s 40 days.
One piece that I’m still giving strong reflection to is
where Satan had tempted Jesus with the being at the pinnacle of the temple and
then how it applies to me.
Throughout my life I have attributed much of my own success to what I
have done. Tonight the fact that
nothing has ever been done by just me struck a serious chord within my
being.
My entire life I have been surrounded by others who wanted
just as much, if not more, for me:
- Parents who led by example, good or bad, never waivered in their love or support for me. I have always felt their love and pride.
- A big brother who always stuck up for me, even when he didn’t agree with me
- Another brother and sister added later in my life who wanted to know me and share our families together
- Cousins who were immediate family and not extended family
- Grandparents who taught me so much in such subtle ways
- A husband who accepts me for who I really am and loves me more than I thought was possible
- Sons who fill my heart with sheer joy
- Nieces and nephews who know how to make me smile
- In-laws who have always made feel treasured and special
- Friends who chose to stand by my side and give support
Pastor Lanette is correct. Success is not because of an
individual by herself. It happens because of “who was with us, direct blessing
from God, serving as co-conspirators of the good stuff.”
Forty really is an amazing number to celebrate.
