Friday, June 12, 2009

Relationships and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups...


We are created for relationship. Even a connoisseur of “alone time” such as myself can’t argue with that fact. Obviously some people are more interested in developing and cultivating healthy relationships than others, but we all need them. They are as vital to our overall well being as much as a healthy eating and exercise plan. I saw a perfect example of this the other day from the wonderful world of nature. I was taking a little stroll to the mailbox at work and I noticed a bevy of activity on the sidewalk under my feet.


There was a little army of hardworking ants busy collecting deceased earthworms, the victims of recent rain storms. Ewwww! I know you’re wondering where I’m going with this, but just hang in there with me. I promise I have a point. There were quite a few ants working together in pairs to transport their burdens back home to waiting families. However, I did notice one little ant in particular who was working on a rather large piece of worm carcass all by himself. I didn’t think too much about it as I made my way to the mailbox, but on my return trip I noticed he was having a devil of a time trying to get himself and his load out of the cavernous crack in the sidewalk. I stopped to observe and what I saw tugged at my heart. Here was a very agitated ant, pacing around, turning in circles, wringing his little ant hands and wondering how in the world he was going to get that darn thing home. I wound up offering my assistance by using my car key to raise the dried up piece of worm to the point the ant could take over and be on his merry little way. I got no “thank you”, “bless you”, or even so much as nod for my gallant effort.


I think there are several lessons for us to take away from this experience:


Lesson #1 – Remember to be thankful. Always say thank you when you receive assistance, whether it’s from God’s hand directly or through the service of another person.


Lesson #2 – It’s not a sin to need help. We all require assistance from time to time. Don’t be ashamed when you are struggling and someone comes along to lend a hand. It’s a gift from God, treat it as such.


Lesson #3 – Look for opportunities to be the hands of God. I’ll go out on a limb here and predict you won’t have to look long or hard before one of those opportunities is right before you. Follow through and then tell God thank you for allowing you to be a part of His work here on earth. But be prepared. It could require serious sacrifice on your part. Just yesterday I was prompted into sacrificial service for a friend. I was required to eat one of her Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups to keep her from being tempted to eat both of them. Oh, the lengths I’ll go to for a friend…I'm here for you, for all of you!

Remember, keep your eyes open and when you see God at work don’t forget to share it with someone.

3 comments:

  1. I enjoyed your story. I feel so blessed to have a friend like you in my life. Your writing is so insightful. How many times have I watched ants and never looked at it as a lesson. Thank you

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  2. Reese....I haven't had one of those in a long time...Love you!!! So that might need to be my celebration snack when Aleks gets home...

    I love you and I am so glad you decided to put your thought down in writing!!!

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  3. Cute post and so true! Love it!

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