Loved

Sometimes it takes falling flat on your face to see how many hands are there to help you up.

My allergies kicked in yesterday.  My first reaction was "Great- the day before I have a solo."  I medicated, warmed up, hydrated, and prayed.  (notice the order..)

This morning, my thoughts were still the same.  I kept trying to figure out why this had to happen today.  Eventually, I thought I had it- trust.  I needed to trust and give my voice over to the One I sing for- let Him sing.  I prayed and tried to get my heart right in the last 15 minutes before the offertory.

I strode up there, ready.  Then... well, as Josiah and others reminded me- at least I didn't give up.

When I finally opened my eyes and started walking down from the platform, I saw two friends waving me over to them from the front pew.  I collapsed into their hugs.  As the service ended and people started moving around, I was surrounded by more and more hugs.  More 'good job's than if I had performed perfectly.  And one of my little girls telling me that it was okay and I should stop shaking.

And in the middle of all that, I had almost missed something so sweet:

  I always bring a mug of tea with me to drink during Sunday school.  After class, I've finished it, so I rinse it out and re-fill it with a can of DrPepper.  A few times lately, I haven't had enough change, so I've had to skip the DrPepper.  Josiah noticed.  Today, when I got into the sanctuary, he handed me a DrPepper can.  I found later that he had brought change from his piggy bank to make certain I could have my drink.  I was so worried about that song, I'd almost missed what a beautiful thoughtful thing Josiah had done.

Tomorrow I'm wearing a t-shirt that says 'princess' on it.  I surprised myself a bit that I even bought it.  And I nearly balked at ever wearing it.

But I can, and I will, because I am loved.