In a nut shell

On a less existential level, I have several opinions of what has gone on in my little spot of the world over the last 6 weeks. I wanted to record that here to see what God does with these views in the future. I'm sure God's not finished working on my heart in the areas of adoption, divorce or politics. I find myself lately doing what I didn't want to with this blog and that is altering how I express my thoughts here out of self protection (i.e. what are people going to think?).

I ask forgiveness ahead of time if my views step on any toes. While I believe truth is foundationaly important, I also believe we should not hurt others with our view of it. I'm open to other's views and this is not in any way trying to convince anyone to see these issues the same way that I do. Please also refer to the Differences and Change entries before continuing. I know many people have moved on from these issues and this is old news. I have always had an analytical personality. Things stay with me longer.

On our lost adoption opportunity....This is not our second choice. What ever child will be our natural/ real child. I know I've said I don't want our child to feel like a consolation prize, but going a step further I want them to know God chose for them to be in our home. Which doesn't take away the love their birth family has for them. While God has given us the gift of choice via adoption, I believe that should not be abused. God will place on our mutual hearts which child He intends for us to raise. I admit to having to catch up to His timing on this issue very slowly and still continue to work it out in my heart and mind. Even this morning I got a call about a possible child, we remain cautious and prayerful for this situation.

On divorce.... I believe first that God did not leave His word behind to hurt other people. Our entire relationship with God is summed up in love God and love our neighbors. We are to love everyone, whether we agree with them or would do the same in their position or not. I dare to debunk the myth that divorce takes two people. Divorce can happen to someone. It takes two people to enter in to a relationship and one person to decide they do not want to continue the relationship. If you've dated, you know this is true. The person being broken up with is left to accept, catch up, make peace and move forward. You can't convince someone to stay where they don't want to be. Commitment, not romantic sentimentality, chemistry or passion, holds a relationship together. No person is without mistakes or sin in their life. It requires unconditional love on both parts for two people to come together and stay together successfully. We are not made to be carbon copies of each other. I do not believe this is a salvation issue or something not forgiven by God. I know in my childhood I was not as understanding of how complicated and painful this is. I do not believe anyone should have to walk around with a scarlet "D" on their chest irregardless of the circumstances. The harsh judgment of someone and not looking at the heart of a person adds additional wounds. I also would not seek guidance from someone that did not honor marriage and the convenant that comes with it.

On the election... Did my guy win? No. Do I believe God works through everyone? Yes. There are Godly traits on both sides. Charity and helping the poor is definitely a Godly trait. As our president elect stated, "a recognition that wisdom is not the monopoly of any one party." We can all learn from each other regardless of age or political affiliation.

All that to say I am thankful to live in a country where I can share my views. I'm thankful for God's perfect timing in adoption. I'm thankful for a forgiveness, compassion and acceptance He provides of all of my sins, past, present and future. I'm thankful for the love, respect and commitment my husband has for me and our marriage and I don't take that lightly. I'm thankful that He is always has a plan for this country. I'm thankful after the last few years of losing so many family memebers to death for those remaining that I'm able to see tomorrow.

On a sweeter and happier part of the nut shell. I'm using bunches of the pecans my MIL left when she was here last month. I made a caramel chocolate pecan cheesecake on Monday and last night a pecan pie. Both gluten free and both for the first time. I'm looking forward to cooking a cornish game hen, biscuits (thank you for the gluten free recipe, Sarah!) , green bean casserole, yams and deviled eggs tonight and in to Thursday morning. I hope everyone has a wonderful day of being surrounded by loved ones. My prayers go out to Elaine , Tommy & Kristine's and Prentice's family and others celebrating the first one without them here on earth. We miss my siblings, Lisa & Alan, my grandparents by blood and marriage: Mamaw, Papaw, Granny Ione, Granny and Grandad Price, Beverly and my sweet niece Angel.

I'll have fun food and family pics later. Happy Thanksgiving!