Thursday, June 17, 2010

Dear God,

Flying is a way to get from point A to point B; yet, I still have to deal with my fear of flying. I am better than I used to be because I have learned to run to you every time I am afraid.

Today I experienced the joy of flying with two of my granddaughters as we winged our way toward Maine. Gabrielle, 10, and Sophie, 9, are vacationing with us for several days. As I climbed aboard, I still felt the fear buddies roaming around in my stomach. I breathed in the air of faith and prayed. But I was not able to rid myself of all who seek my demise.

It was in thin air that I observed my grandchildren. Sophie was scared too but Gabrielle playfully engaged her, winning her over to trust in something higher than the lower fear. They laughed their way to the coast.

That small observation reminded me that in every situation where I experience fear, I have a choice to lean toward fear or trust. I can have the life sucked right out of me as I breathe fear or I can feel the calm that trust brings. By her example Sophie showed me that trust has more power than fear when we take the hand of someone who trusts more. She clasped Gabrielle's hand when we took off and when we landed. That simple act transformed her fear into faith.

It is true,
O God,
that children
will lead us
to greater levels
of tranquil living
if we
let them.
Today you pointed
to my granddaughters
to teach me
about greater trust
and faith.
Thank you.

Love, Andrea