Transition times can be trying.
Friendships change, neighbors come and go, and sometimes life can be lonely. Two of our adult daughters moved to different cities. Another daughter works night shift and plans to move into her own apartment soon. Our home is almost empty of our children for the first time in thirty-three years.
Although I’m not one to be easily discouraged, I’ve felt alone, dejected, and even depressed during this season—until a beautiful young woman showed up. Cheryl is the daughter of close friends who are more like family. They had moved to another state some time ago.
Cheryl’s mom and I spent precious years together watching our children grow. I admired the way our friends raised their precious family. Our families shared summertime trips to amusement parks, birthday celebrations, and ice cream socials at our church after Wednesday AWANA classes.
I reconnected with Cheryl through social media, and we shared our thoughts and hearts again. What I did not know was that Cheryl felt the same special bond. In fact, during this difficult time, she shared how she thought of me as her honorary aunt.
I was blown away, not only by Cheryl’s thoughtful gesture of sharing her heart, but also by God’s answer to my prayer to show me the influence I have had on others. Cheryl shared how our shopping times together shaped her into the woman she is today.
Encouragement like this helps us move through those growing times when we wonder how we can impact other’s lives for good.
Has a friend, neighbor, or teacher influenced your life for the better? Take a moment to contact them and tell them what they mean to you. You’ll be glad you did.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Kelly Liberto is a wife, mother, sister, and friend who lives in Southeastern Pennsylvania. She has enjoyed a good story since a childhood trip to Ireland where her wee cousin weaved a fairy tale from an air bubble in the pavement. For more stories visit her on her website at www.kellyanneliberto.com.