A Remarkable Tapestry

published in 2009
in the Stockton Sentinel, 

Stockton, Kansas

One of my favorite novelists, Richard Paul Evans, in his book, "The Carousel," wrote, "I have come to believe that we do not walk along in this life. There are others, fellow sojourners, whose journeys are interwoven with ours in seemingly random patterns, yet, in the end, have been carefully placed to reveal a remarkable tapestry. I believe God is the weaver at that loom."

I fully understand Evans' thoughts and believe these words to be true, especially since life is much easier understood looking in a rear view mirror. Looking back at where I've been and what has happened in the past makes much more sense than trying to make decisions about something current or in the future. Remembering the people I've met along the way and thinking about how they came along in my life at just the right time or for a certain purpose simply puts me in awe -- a virtual "footprints in the sand" experience. Looking backward helps me understand the picture going forward.

Some people move from place to place a lot and don't know what it is like to put down roots in a place for a long period of time. Whether in a military family or some other occupation that requires relocation, some folks seem to live out of boxes. I am too much of a homebody to adopt that kind of life. I want the security of knowing the relationships I form will have a chance to develop into deep, lasting friendships. I want to know when I plant flowers or trees that they will be for my enjoyment, not someone else's, or when I paint a room in the house, it is for my pleasure and not to make the house more sellable.

The first half of my life was like that, with roots that went 40-years deep into the life of the Goessel, Kansas community. The thought never crossed my mind that I would move away from my hometown. But God had different plans, and the tapestry of my life continued its amazing, colorful weave. Although I balked at moving, I have been blessed each time. Blessed by wonderful friends, rich experiences, new challenges... each move has been a growing experience.

Having lived in Stockton, Kansas now for several years, I know the weaving of that tapestry continues. Just thinking of people I would never have met or experiences I would not have had if I had not moved here helps to erase any feelings of "homesickness." The strands of the tapestry are not only more colorful, they are also stronger because each leg of the journey takes me out of my comfort zone and strengthens my character. God continues to weave at the loom, and the patterns are beautiful.