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A Good Word

Love Them As They Are

Last year, my daughter and her family traveled from Seattle to spend a few days with me. After a quick trip to the grocery store, I walked in the house and experienced shock as I surveyed the living room. Raisins peeked out from under chair cushions. Tissue paper jammed the VCR. Half-eaten snacks teetered on the edges of my end tables. Spilled soda puddled on the coffee table. Toys littered the floor and fresh crayon marked the TV. I struggled not to be angry.

For years, I had worked to develop patience, and this was my moment to shine. I left the room quickly and prepared to confront the mess with a new attitude. One harsh word could end up being my family’s only memory of their visit. I prayed for God’s help.

I pictured my family laughing as they played hide-and-seek with the raisins and soccer with the couch pillows. As I imagined how the mess had been made, I started laughing. Walking back in the room, I smiled—without any facial tics.

Later, my daughter said, “Sorry about the mess, Mom.”

“What mess?” I replied innocently, smiling again.

I thank God for helping me see the beauty around me. He helps me find humor in life’s little surprises. He helps me be patient and keeps me from speaking harshly—gentle words work so much better.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1, NIV).

HELENE THOMAS

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