(Pilgrim's) Progress

Sometimes I feel like this:

Sort of lonesome and left to my own devices - - not grounded at all, using fleshly reasoning in my circumstances and desperately off-track.

Honestly, I have just been frustrated, wanting so much more for us, noticing how other couple's seem to get along with little or no conflict and wishing for that.

Realizing all the while that it's a dance, something to figure out and learn and perfect. We all struggle, we all fight but geeze, Lord. This is who you chose for me I'm sure of it. . .so why are we both pulling our hair out. Sigh.

I also realize that these are the harder years, small children, tight bank accounts, spread butter-thin each day and night - - I get it, but can't it just be easier, can't we just get along, is that too much to ask?

"Know, prudent cautious self-control is wisdom's root."

- John Bunyan, Pilgrim's Progress

So, I hope and pray for progress, to dig in and get back on the right track. Claiming this verse all the way to Atlanta yesterday. . .

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

I drove to Atlanta to see her for my annual exam (pictured with Sloane).

I LOVE my doctor. We bonded when I was pregnant with Audrey, she completely met my need over a mild complication that I developed (she went into action and quickly set me up with a specialist) and we were buddies from that point on. . . She went on to deliver Audrey and Sloane, Dr. Cyd Williams - my hero. There are hundred's of other doctor's between Conyers and Piedmont, but I drive to see her, no discussion at all.

Another bonus of driving to Atlanta was the fact that someone else works at Piedmont, one of my favorite people on the planet. I had lunch here:with Heather Heaton. . .can I just tell you that God links us with exactly the right people at the right time.
She told me about a book she has that I should read, called Sacred Marriage. I ALREADY HAVE the book, believe it or not. Of course, I haven't read it yet but have pulled it back out and am reading it now.

She also mentioned that she's listening to an Andy Stanley series on marriage, Staying in Love (how timely). I got an iPod for Mother's Day (again, very timely) and have now downloaded the 2 messages he already taught in a 4 part series at NPCC.

I listened to the 1st message last night and can I tell you:

I NEEDED THAT!!!

Go to the link for the series, you can download to your iPod or listen online. It's free and like manna from heaven for your marriage.

I miss Andy (North Point's pastor). . .the way God uses him is mind-blowing. His message is so simple, that's the point, that's what we need and how I believe that Jesus meant it to be. I think I'm always trying to make it harder than it really is.

And so I'm learning, making progress and trying to apply this verse- words from Christ,

34"A new command I give you:

Love one another.

As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Love One Another. . .

"You first, no you first, no you first, no you."

Ok, I'm going to try that. Thanks Lord!