I think, had George been here, that he and I would have gone fishing today. He was going to be teaching his little brothers and sisters how to fish. That will be left up to me now. I love catching fish and can usually out-fish the menfolk. I don't mind baiting my own hook, but I admit I am a sissy girl when it comes to taking them off the hook. That's probably why I can out-fish the menfolk - I keep them busy taking the fish off my hook and they have to neglect their lines!
Sometimes when you fish, you will catch one that is not a keeper and it has to be thrown back in. I think memories can be like that. Some are keepers and some are not. When we lose a loved one, some memories can be a blessing and a comfort while others can have a negative impact on our grieving process. For example, maybe they create in us a sense of guilt, shame, even anger. We can become "hooked" onto those feelings far too long. They can keep us flipping and flopping on the ground wearing us down emotionally, mentally, and physically. We must deal with them, then unhook ourselves from them. Only when we do, can we move steadily upstream.
We may be tempted from time to time, to go back and nibble a bit on the bait of guilt, shame, or anger. We just need to be careful not to fall for it hook, line, and sinker. Instead we need to embrace the good times we shared. They will soothe our soul.
God has promised to forgive us of our sins and declare us "not guilty," when we choose a relationship with Him. If God loves us enough to forgive us and take away our guilt and shame, then we need to learn to forgive ourselves and others. It's not always easy for us, but it is worth the effort! Hang in there my friends, and keep your eyes open to see the
Sunshine After the Storm
Blessings!
Betsy
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| George Fishing - This One Is NOT a Keeper! |
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