Celebrated, just for “showing up”

What a day that was!  All that hoopla and warm wishes and friends popping into my virtual cubicle, cheerful faces shining, just because. 

Just because 44 years ago yesterday, I showed up.  That’s all.  And being celebrated for that very simple fact is exhilarating.

Two cards had come in the mail earlier in the week, and then a third.  I smiled, looking at the gold cup on the front and the “free drink” on the back, knowing that an appointment with my “friends” at Starbucks was imminent. 

Savor-er that I am, I waited, tucking those cards away until The Big Day.  Then, slipping them into my backpack, along with the pink one from my sweetie, I stole away  for some quiet time after dawn broke just over the field.

Venti white mocha in hand, I drew out the beloved Book and opened it, looking for an encouraging word; listening for His whisper, His heart toward me on my special day.  And there it was.

“I have put My words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand – I who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth and who say to Zion, ‘You are My people.’”  Who says to that little girl in the yellow dress with the messy ponytails and dusty sandals,“You are my daughter.”

Like a warm embrace, a kiss on the cheek, those ancient words – so old, yet fresh and new – wrapped right around my heart.  And then came you.

Thank you for showing up.  For showing up in my mail box.  For showing up on my “wall.”  For showing up on the blog.  For showing up in my inbox.  For showing up, words of blessing wrapped like gifts and promises to pray.  For showing up and laughing (or crying) with a girl who just feels stuff.

You bless me just by showing up.  You do!  And one day (we need to know this way down deep), there will be a celebration to end all others when we cross the finish line.  The One who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth, will throw a party for us just for showing up. 

So keep running.  Hang in there.  Don’t be weary in welldoing, for in due season we shall reap – we shall be celebrated and rewarded – when we show up.

In love sincere,

Rhonda