Zoning

“When God moves us out of our comfort zone —- into places that are way bigger than us, places that are difficult, hard, painful —- even hurt — this is a gift. We are being given a gift. These hard places give us the gift of intimately knowing God in ways that would never be possible in our comfort zones.” -The Holy Experience

Truth be told, I am way out of my comfort zone... Part of me longs for escape, but a bigger part longs to grow through this difficult time. There is much to be thankful for in this "gift," I know that, but what to thank Him for, I am not always certain...

Who is the woman living in my house? Is this really the same woman who tenderly cared for me as a babe? The same one who tied my shoes and held my hand on long walks? Is this the woman who smiled proudly on my wedding day? Is she the one who sat on the living room floor and played "Cars and Blocks" with my boys, the one who lent a listening ear so many frustrating days?

She says growing old is hard and I've no doubt of that, but watching one's parent grow old is not a picnic either. I've not yet mastered the art of answering repeated questions without a trace of irritation. I've not yet figured out how to gracefully intervene in sticky situations. I'm not yet sure how to decipher the now blurred lines of parent and child...

One thing I do know, if I am willing to believe and trust my Father in heaven knows what He is doing, underneath the wrapping is a gift and God is near.