Backstory
This story has been a favorite with listeners and readers since it first appeared in 2009. We repost once a year.
The story came to mind when I was thinking about the most influential people in my long, eventful life. Some for a monumental moment or two and some, never willing to part with. See who comes to mind when you Consider This.
A Reason, a Season, a Lifetime
People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed or just felt. They have come to assist you through a hard time, to provide you with guidance and support, and to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Then, suddenly, the person disappears from your life. Your need has been met; their work is done.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share or grow or give back. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They give you great joy. Believe it; it is real. But only for a season.
Lifetime relationships teach you lifetime lessons—things you must build upon to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all your other relationships.
Think about the people in your life over the years. Whether they were there for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, accept them and treasure them for however long they were meant to be part of your life.
And when they are gone, be thankful for the gifts you received from them when they were here—for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.
P.S. Who came to mind as you followed this story? Were you gratified when the time with them was up? Is the memory still vivid, even though so long ago? Would you change anything about your time together? Has it inspired a comment or two to share – or a whole story? I’m listening attentively, with a smile.
[Show #456]
My lifetime person is YOU! And how grateful and joyous and blessed I am to have you as my big sister. God knew what He was doing when He put us together… for a lifetime. we’ve both learned so much from each other. Let’s keep sharing new lessons all along the journey. Love you bunches.
You called one day and said, “I miss you so much that I can’t stand it. I am taking my handicap walker and suitcases and bags and boarding a train and traveling for 24 hours to come and be with you,”
That was the most selfless, generous proof of love I have ever seen or heard or felt. I knew how cumbersome, inconvenient and downright painful that would be for you. I’m surprised your family let you do it. That was an incredible gift earned simply by loving the very special person who is my precious little sister.