The simple life

Labor Day. A day off from work, a day to catch up on things at home, a day to have some last summer fun, and today, a day for a revelation.

For those who don't know our family, we have a daughter, Laurie, who has special needs. Although her physical body has been on this earth for 32 years, her mental capacity hovers around the 2-3 year old mark most days. She lives in an independent supported living home but comes home every Sunday, every holiday, and one weekend a month. Except for Sunday afternoon trips to the neighborhood swimming pool, Laurie really doesn't care to go anywhere or do anything when she comes home. She just wants to "pway" (play). And quite often she wants me to participate in whatever she is interested in at the time.

"Mama, sit here" with a pat to the seat next to her clues me in that she needs my attention for a while. We can sit on the glider on the porch as she gives me a running one word commentary on what she sees outside. Or we can drag our lawn chairs out to the driveway and wave at all the cars that go by. Or a pat on the couch next to her means she wants to show me what is in the book or catalog she's looking at, "Wook, mama, wook." You might even find us swinging in the hammock, although balancing with someone who is usually in perpetual motion is tricky. And if you try to put her off or ignore her, she uses the strength of her adult body to change your mind. No matter where it is or for how long, it is always precious time, especially now that she's not living at home.

Now here's my revelation. I wonder how many times God has said to me, "Sharon, sit here" and I've not taken the time to listen. As cherished as my time is with Laurie, how much more should my time with the Lord be? Yet, when He has something to show me, or tell me, or just wants to spend time with me, do I pay attention? He longs for us to open His book so He can show us essential things but unlike Laurie, He will not force us to "sit here." We have to chose how we spend our time and whether we will pay attention.

1 Corinthians 1:27 says, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." Once again, my supposedly weak minded daughter has taught me a valuable lesson. Sometimes just sitting may be the most important thing I will get done that day and the best investment of my time. Thanks, Laurie for showing me the way.