thoughts from the harbor

What a wonderful day yesterday. I had the privilege of spending the day with Josh and Dan in Baltimore. Since they were in the area, now my area, we decided to meet and take the train into downtown Baltimore and spend the afternoon at the inner harbor. Not only were we blessed with good company and great conversation, but great weather as well. We hit the IMAX theatre for a movie on Dinosaurs, which still leaves me baffled. Then we walked around, enjoying the sites as we waited for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. As we sat outside and ate on the patio, my heart was full. I was reminded yet again of the Lord's goodness and provision in my life. Blessed by the presence of these two brothers, blessed by intentional and challenging conversation that was real, open, and honest, blessed to have friends who respect, care for, and support me..... the more I think about it, the more I recognize the significance of being here at the harbor. A harbor is a place of shelter and refuge, protecting an area from storms, and is deep enough to anchor a ship. In the past, I have felt alone, 'left behind,' weak and unprotected. But tonight, I was reminded of the truth that exists in my friendships. God, you are showing me more and more that there are people in my life that are walking with me, caring for me, and in a sense, are part of what makes my 'harbor.' While you are my ultimate protector and sustainer, I praise you for allowing me see the glimpses of you in my life. I thank you for these brothers and for what they add to my life. I thank you for the friends that are part of the weaving of my past, present, and future. And I thank you for moments like these that fill me with thanksgiving, and bring hope for the future!