There are many moments from my childhood that stand out… some that I am still learning from, many that I seem to be reliving nowadays with the help of my children. But there is one…
It was a 76 truck stop, probably somewhere between Danville, IL and Tampa, FL where this particular memory takes place. I was about 6 years old. We were on vacation, my mom, dad, sister, GG and I. After a very long and tiring day of driving we pulled off the interstate to find some dinner.
We sat down and prepared to order our dinner. When the waitress came to the table, she worked her way around taking my order last. To my parents’ horror I said something like this, ” I want a grilled cheese sandwich with chocolate milk… And hurry up about it!” I was hungry after all…
I was immediately escorted to the restroom for a discussion with my mother. I learned that my words and how I say them to people are very important. As a follower of Christ I should be treating others with love and care, no matter what. Needless to say, an apology to the waitress was in order.
In my head I know too well that words are permanent. They can be hurtful and there are no returns or exchanges. Once they are out there- its done. Wouldn’t you think by now, thirty years later that I would have this lesson down? You know, in time to teach my own children by example.
from James 3:
“Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.”
If only I had focused on this Scripture this morning… before I lost my patience and moved through my house like a wildfire, causing devastation with my tongue. I threw many angry, impatient words around and within minutes everyone in my house was crying. I was in a hurry after all…
from Proverbs:
“Reckless words pierce like a sword,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Its hard for me to dig down deep and think about the reality of my morning. I am more aware than ever that the power of life and death are in the tongue. So, there are two choices for me: I can choose to live by the power of the Holy Spirit, speaking life-giving words that will bring peace, healing and comfort to our household and those around us. Or I can continue on in my own flesh, using language that will lead down a path of darkness and sin. Clearly, I really only have one choice…
I am thankful for sweet children and a Heavenly Father who have readily forgiven me. I’m hopeful that each morning I’ll remember to make my choice – at the beginning of the day, prepared to live in the peace that only comes from Him. Maybe I’ve finally found the way to live out that lesson I began learning so long ago at the 76 Truck Stop.
(written October 6, 2010)
daily portion 