Together

I watched her walk in. Weary and heavy. Yet, joy danced in her eyes. This mama was resolute in purpose in that moment. 

Her daughter was by her side. Wheelchair bound and weak. Yet, so very alive. This daughter was certain of love in that moment.

Together. F o r t y years and counting.

I watched them for a little while. It was simply second nature for this mama to stop and change out her oxygen support, while eyeing her grown-up baby’s every breath.

As a lump puddled in my throat, I thought about my own hard and weary days of motherhood. And for a moment, it completely paled in comparison.

I’m not sure that this mighty portion was what this amazing, small-frame of a woman would have chosen when she was a dreaming twenty-something. And I’m not sure it’s what her beautiful girl would have chosen either, given the option.

But God.

Every day of our lives ~ and our children’s ~ are perfectly intentioned before one of them ever comes to be. He makes no mistakes. And He always holds together what He brings together, for His greater glory. We just have to stay with Him. Today. Tomorrow. And then the next.

I swallowed my tears (and my fear) and walked over to this faithful mama. I told her she brought me joy. She looked confused. Then I looked her in the eyes and said, “Being a mama is hard. But it’s beautiful.”

She looked back at me quiet, with grateful tears welling, and smiled half brave.

She didn’t know my story, but she didn’t really need to. Her look met mine with a simple sigh, and I think we both felt a little more loved. Known. Bonded. Not with pity, but with strength and dignity.

And isn’t that what we all need? Someone to simply see us. To en-courage us. To be gentle and kind to us, right in the middle of our hard and holy calling.

My friend, we actually aren’t the Superwoman we sometimes imagine ourselves to be. But gracious, we have the opportunity to be super women to one another. Smiling, helping, listening, praying, and cheering each other on. Little by little.

She was tired. I was tired. And in that moment, I am pretty sure we both inhaled a deep breath of Rest.

We weren’t made to go this journey alone. Nor do we have to. And that means we have a mission…to[get]her. 

You may have her name or face in mind right now. Yeah, even h e r. Or maybe you will see her in the checkout line, or perhaps even online. It doesn’t have to be much. Afterall, it’s the little things that help our hearts brave the big things.

We are better together. Who will you come alongside today?

And by the way, I know you’re weary too. But maybe that’s the point. We give out of our lack, so that His strength comes bursting out in ways we never thought to ask or imagine. 

To God be the glory.

“Encourage one another every day - for as long as we can still say ‘today’...” Hebrews 3:13