2nd place
I decided to go for a walk in my neighborhood. It was one of those evenings where there was no wind, the temperature was perfect, and the setting sun was painting a gorgeous purple canvas. One of those 5 out of 365 days of the year that we get to enjoy in Oklahoma. As I rounded the corner, I saw a sweet family playing outside. It was a mom and her two young daughters. The two girls lined up, standing side-by-side, and the mom yelled, “go!” The two girls ran as fast as their little legs could carry them. They ran all the way to where their mom was standing, which was also the finish line. Both girls cheered loudly and excitedly! They were having so much fun! The mom gave them both high-fives and hugs and was cheering right alongside them. Then one of her daughters asked her, “did I get first place?” And the mom looked at her and said, “you got second place! Isn’t that awesome!?” And gave her a high five and quickly said, “I am so proud of you!” Based on her mom‘s reaction, the little girl was thrilled to get second place. She cheered right alongside her mom and said, “let’s do it again!”So they quickly got back in line to start the race all over again.
“Tell us when to go mommy!”
I couldn’t help but smile and also marvel at that mom! Brilliant! Her response was reflected on her daughter’s reaction! And it was an incredible teaching moment that we don’t always have to come in 1st place.
Our response to things can truly affect the way others see things and the view and response they have. It’s like the saying, “the glass is either half empty or half full.”
I want to take a moment and encourage moms. Cheer your children on! Tell them you are proud of them. And even if they come in 2nd place, it’s okay. Your response has a tremendous effect on them and shapes their outlook on whatever the situation is—and on life. Always be honest but in a loving way! So when they ask, “did I get 1st place?” You can let them know the truth but reassure them that their value and worth does not rest on their performance.
Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
So many times this verse is taken out of context. We can’t do ALL things through Christ. I can’t slam dunk a basketball!
I believe what this verse is referring to is about God giving us the strength we need to do the things He has asked and called us to do.
Can I do my very best and ask God to strengthen me when I feel fearful? 100%!
Can I start a home for girls in Ghana? Not in my own strength, but in God’s strength, yes!
So, today. You might never come in 1st place. Or your kids might never come in 1st place. And that’s OKAY!
We continue to cheer them on, work as if we are working for The Lord, and rely on His strength to carry us to the finish line.