I never really liked me, until I learned who I am

Good Morning Everyone,

So far this year, which is almost half over, has been my year of learning how to receive and still have joy. I know that sounds strange to some of you. But, when you've spent your life giving to your kids and spouses and even as a kid, not having the necessities of life, it's not easy to receive. I've had one person to count on most of my life.....or so I thought.....which I thought was me. I was so wrong. I led me more astray than the worst of villains. I denied myself the necessities of life. I have never really liked me, until I learned who I am.

It's been obvious who my various roles have been. I know I'm a mother, a sister, a grandmother, a friend, but I haven't considered myself a child for a very long time. But, I am a child. I'm a child of God and He sees me as the apple of His eye. He is especially fond of me, much like everyone else. The thing is though, it is personal, very personal. He doesn't just love mankind, all humans and animals, He loves ME, just as I am. I'm pretty sure they wrote a song about that. lol.

I know this sounds so elementary to most of you.....and it is. It's so simple a child can understand it. Children automatically know they are special unless you've treated them different. They are born knowing how to receive love and care. I don't think that's a coincidence either. When I consider the significance of that, it's staggering. Having my grandson Paxton a few times a week is teaching me more about love than any book ever could, even the Bible. I'm a hands on learner. Some things I can learn by reading, but most things for me is hands on. You can't just show me the instructions of a software program and expect me to use it right away. But, working with the program at the same time I'm reading is most effective. Maybe that's why The Lord has chosen this particular time to teach me something new. He's teaching me how to receive by His Word and by example....my grandson. I think maybe I have never loved before, other than my children and grandchildren, and that's because they are so easy to love. But, I've never really allowed myself to give and receive at the same time, at least not as an adult. I hope you understand what I'm saying. I have loved before, but I don't think I've loved as I was intended to love.

I'm going to leave you with one of my favorite verses in Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light."

I pray today that your yoke is light and that you receive as a child would, the joy that is set before you. Until next time, love each other, Love, Patty