My Beautiful, Exquisite Sister!

 

Recently we celebrated my sister’s birthday.  She and her husband came and we shared dinner and cake and ice cream and presents.  It was fun, and brought back many memories. 

 

In Japan the role of the oldest child is important. The oldest has more responsibility, and must watch over the younger.  Since I am the oldest, I have always felt responsibility for my sister.  I felt it my role to protect her, and to help her as best I could.  Since I have disabilities, some thought she was taking care of me and that she was my security, but in reality, yes, she helped me much.  However, I was stability for her.  We were a good team.

When she got married, I found it hard to part with her.  I love her husband and was glad for her, but there was an empty space in my life.  I realized as we celebrated her birthday, that I still feel a responsibility for her.  I made sure to order a cake I knew she wanted.  I wanted to make sure everything was right for her. 

I thank God for sending her to our family.  She has always encouraged me to grow, and she is and always will be a bright spot in my life.  How I love that beautiful, exquisite sister of mine!

Pancakes or Oatmeal

 

Often my life does not play out like I plan.  I wake up and think “pancakes for breakfast!” But I get oatmeal.  It is good, but not pancakes! 

Or I may think, “Let’s go see Abi, my sister.”   But we clean my room instead.  A necessary event, but not my first choice.  It can make me grumpy! It can make me complain, and fuss at my parents.  Never a good response!

Maybe it would be better to wake up and say, "God what do you have for me today?  Bring it on Lord!  I am ready, because you are walking with me. "

I read in the Old Testament how God walked with the Israelites, but they kept forgetting and coming up with a better idea.  I need to see God’s plan as the best idea and go with it joyfully, expectantly, even.  God’s plans are always amazing, but not always at the time.  Looking back, I see this.  I must practice living in that expectancy and joy, no matter if it pancakes or oatmeal!