"Laying your Isaac on the altar" - the resonates deeply with me. In a similar situation, I finally stopped praying for what I want and started praying that they fulfill God's plans and praying compassionate blessing the possible struggles of a young family's day. This selfless praying started opening doors. One day, God revealed the hidden blessing in the situation - a four-fold blessing. God is not surprised, though we are, at estrangements - yet He has the plans to prosper us, to grow us - He is writing our story with us - and their story with them. I've begun to see that sometimes I am in the middle of the hard part of the story that has me on pins, needles, and tears - but He has a more creative "turn around" or "save" than I can imagine if I controlled the story line. It is hard when a child decides not to include us in their story, but, oh, my - He doesn't stop the story in the hard part!
Maryleigh, I'm just going to continue sitting with your wise and godly words. You're right, we are simply part of His whole story and we may not see the results we had prayed for. But He knows. And there in is our peace.
I, too, have a daughter who has turned away from her family, and taken her adult children with her. It is heart-breaking for all of us who love these dear family members, but we console ourselves by remembering that, at least for now, this is what they see as the better choice for them. I am also heartened by the story of the Prodigal Son; I notice that the father does not run after his son, which would likely just chase the son further away, but patiently, faithfully, and prayerfully awaits the son's return. And then responds with love and forgiveness. Know that there are many who wait patiently, faithfully, and prayerfully with you🙏💖
Dear Elly, Your heartbreak saddens me. I am so sorry about what you and your family are experiencing. Nothing prepares us for this. There are no words.
And here you are reaching out with lovingkindness to someone who is experiencing the same kind of heartbreak. So thank you, friend. For being here. For being vulnerable and thoughtful. For being the hands and feet of Jesus.
Which is who you are. I am grateful to fellowship with you, friend.
Thank you so much - I thought you knew about this facet of my life. I have shared it with many as I find it often helps to know that you are not "the only one". Sweet dreams, my friend!
Your answer was "spot on" Linda! Love the idea of pouring out oneself in a letter, and then burning it. Sometimes just writing/speaking things out, you realize more than if you hadn't, and there is a peace that comes with letting go. Glad you are back dear friend, your presence in blogland is such a blessing! Much love to you!
You're so right! Putting pen to paper is a powerful step toward understanding what's REALLY swirling around inside our brains and souls. Seeing our complex story in black and white can be a helpful game changer toward hope and healing.
Your space is so inviting, Linda. Every morning, I could curl up on those blue chairs, toss a quilt over my legs, and stare out the window with a cup of coffee in my hands. May God bless your "Dear Linda" re-boot! I'll be in a re-boot soon with my writing. It's slowly getting there, but in a couple of months I'll be retiring from my 40 year career, and God-willing, my writing and photography re-boot will be full on! It's never too late for a re-boot. :)
I love that you're re-booting, Lynn. The combination of your thoughtful wisdom and those stunning photos have always hit home for me. I'll be keeping my eye open for your re-debut. Please keep me posted, ok?
The unmailed letter idea is especially powerful, and your reminder that there’s no “wrong” way to pray is so comforting. Thank you for creating this space of grace and encouragement on PORCH. Looking forward to more of Dear Linda! 💙
I love that you are bringing Dear Linda back! Such a hard situation to address in the first question ... it breaks my heart that it seems to be happening in more and more families these days.
Linda, I am new here, so was unaware of this feature previously. So glad you are "airing it out". My husband and I enclosed our large back patio two years ago. We put in a mini split a/c-heating unit so we could use it all four seasons. It is the best think we ever did to our home! We now spend 90% of our time in it, watching the birds, squirrels, and deer. It has been a huge blessing to my 81 year old husband and helped in his recory from a 3 year siege of medical emergencies. Your response to brokenhearted was so wise and compassionate. I ,too, have had an estrangement from a daughter, many yeare ago now. It was a heartbreak like no other. But... we now have a healing relationship and I believe that is because my daughter turned her life over to Jesus, and I never stopped praying for her. I pray brokenhearted will remain steadfast in her prayers, and faith. The Lord's timing is always right.
Josephine, welcome! Thanks for spending time with us today, sharing a bit of your story, and encouraging us to trust in God's timing. It sounds like the Lord has walked you through some deep valleys ... and you've emerged, singing His praises. Your words will give a boost of hope to others who'll be reading about your experiences. I'm grateful you're here.
"Laying your Isaac on the altar" - the resonates deeply with me. In a similar situation, I finally stopped praying for what I want and started praying that they fulfill God's plans and praying compassionate blessing the possible struggles of a young family's day. This selfless praying started opening doors. One day, God revealed the hidden blessing in the situation - a four-fold blessing. God is not surprised, though we are, at estrangements - yet He has the plans to prosper us, to grow us - He is writing our story with us - and their story with them. I've begun to see that sometimes I am in the middle of the hard part of the story that has me on pins, needles, and tears - but He has a more creative "turn around" or "save" than I can imagine if I controlled the story line. It is hard when a child decides not to include us in their story, but, oh, my - He doesn't stop the story in the hard part!
Maryleigh, I'm just going to continue sitting with your wise and godly words. You're right, we are simply part of His whole story and we may not see the results we had prayed for. But He knows. And there in is our peace.
This so resonates with me. My oldest so is estranged from me…Thy Will Be Done! Great advice! Thanks
Oh Cindie, I'm grateful you found some comfort here. Welcome!
Thank you!
Oh my Dear Linda sounds fantastic! I will be writing in. I also just love what you said to this mom as she a your words resonated with me too.
Thank you so much for sharing with Sweet Tea & Friends this month sweet friend 🌼🤗❤️☕
Dear Linda comes alive again tomorrow morning at 6 am (eastern!)
I, too, have a daughter who has turned away from her family, and taken her adult children with her. It is heart-breaking for all of us who love these dear family members, but we console ourselves by remembering that, at least for now, this is what they see as the better choice for them. I am also heartened by the story of the Prodigal Son; I notice that the father does not run after his son, which would likely just chase the son further away, but patiently, faithfully, and prayerfully awaits the son's return. And then responds with love and forgiveness. Know that there are many who wait patiently, faithfully, and prayerfully with you🙏💖
Dear Elly, Your heartbreak saddens me. I am so sorry about what you and your family are experiencing. Nothing prepares us for this. There are no words.
And here you are reaching out with lovingkindness to someone who is experiencing the same kind of heartbreak. So thank you, friend. For being here. For being vulnerable and thoughtful. For being the hands and feet of Jesus.
Which is who you are. I am grateful to fellowship with you, friend.
Thank you so much - I thought you knew about this facet of my life. I have shared it with many as I find it often helps to know that you are not "the only one". Sweet dreams, my friend!
This is lovely and so is your porch!!! I feel welcomed here
And definitely likewise at your space, friend ...
Dear Linda, thank you for this. Yes, please do more.❣️
I'm waiting to hear from someone for our April edition!
Such an encouraging post! I love the "Dear Linda" segment. May God continue to bless your every effort, dear friend.
Likewise, friend. He hears the cries of our hearts.
I love this idea of sharing a readers letter. You give such great advice.
Amy, thanks for stopping by on this gorgeous Monday morning!
Your answer was "spot on" Linda! Love the idea of pouring out oneself in a letter, and then burning it. Sometimes just writing/speaking things out, you realize more than if you hadn't, and there is a peace that comes with letting go. Glad you are back dear friend, your presence in blogland is such a blessing! Much love to you!
You're so right! Putting pen to paper is a powerful step toward understanding what's REALLY swirling around inside our brains and souls. Seeing our complex story in black and white can be a helpful game changer toward hope and healing.
Let's grab our pens and do the work!
Your space is so inviting, Linda. Every morning, I could curl up on those blue chairs, toss a quilt over my legs, and stare out the window with a cup of coffee in my hands. May God bless your "Dear Linda" re-boot! I'll be in a re-boot soon with my writing. It's slowly getting there, but in a couple of months I'll be retiring from my 40 year career, and God-willing, my writing and photography re-boot will be full on! It's never too late for a re-boot. :)
I love that you're re-booting, Lynn. The combination of your thoughtful wisdom and those stunning photos have always hit home for me. I'll be keeping my eye open for your re-debut. Please keep me posted, ok?
Can't wait!
The unmailed letter idea is especially powerful, and your reminder that there’s no “wrong” way to pray is so comforting. Thank you for creating this space of grace and encouragement on PORCH. Looking forward to more of Dear Linda! 💙
Thanks for the encouragement to travel down this new 'Dear Linda' road together. Now ... let's see if anyone sends a letter!
I don’t know……in my eyes you are a miracle worker……and a blessing 🧡 I absolutely loved the Mitford series…….its like coming home
Ah, He alone is our miracle worker! All praise to Jesus.
I love that you are bringing Dear Linda back! Such a hard situation to address in the first question ... it breaks my heart that it seems to be happening in more and more families these days.
You're so right, dear one. Sadly, I know few families where there's not some sort of underground conflict, dispute, or unfinished business.
THIS.IS.A.GIFT!! Thank you!! Your words are filled with wisdom and compassion and are a balm to my bloodied heart ♥️
Terri, I'm grateful that there was something here to encourage you today. Rest well this evening ... God is good.
Welcome back! I have definitely found unburdening and not mailing letters to be quite cathartic.
Sometimes we just have to unpack so we can move ahead with a much lighter load.
Linda, I am new here, so was unaware of this feature previously. So glad you are "airing it out". My husband and I enclosed our large back patio two years ago. We put in a mini split a/c-heating unit so we could use it all four seasons. It is the best think we ever did to our home! We now spend 90% of our time in it, watching the birds, squirrels, and deer. It has been a huge blessing to my 81 year old husband and helped in his recory from a 3 year siege of medical emergencies. Your response to brokenhearted was so wise and compassionate. I ,too, have had an estrangement from a daughter, many yeare ago now. It was a heartbreak like no other. But... we now have a healing relationship and I believe that is because my daughter turned her life over to Jesus, and I never stopped praying for her. I pray brokenhearted will remain steadfast in her prayers, and faith. The Lord's timing is always right.
Josephine, welcome! Thanks for spending time with us today, sharing a bit of your story, and encouraging us to trust in God's timing. It sounds like the Lord has walked you through some deep valleys ... and you've emerged, singing His praises. Your words will give a boost of hope to others who'll be reading about your experiences. I'm grateful you're here.
Thank you, Linda. I am grateful to have found you, and your community, here on the internet.