Detour

Detour

Last night I was on my way to Bible Study and traffic was backed up at the Ridge Cut—as usual. I really felt compelled to turn around and go to Hixson to hear Perry Stone. I’ve really never been a follower of Perry Stone, but I knew I had to go. I got off the interstate and headed back to Hixson. I am so glad that I went. His message was about being the “first born” child. I am a first born child—I am an only child. He also talked about widows—and yes, I am a widow. I can’t explain the message here, I only know that I needed to hear it.

How many times have we really “listened” to our inner voice and made a “detour”? I have done it before. One time I felt compelled to turn into the parking lot of a furniture store. That was the time that a man prayed over me and told me my husband would not have to have a heart transplant. At the time I thought the man was crazy. Two weeks later we were told that Charles didn’t need a heart transplant. For some unknown reason his heart was healing. I didn’t even know that man’s name. The next day I learned his name and he became a good friend. I even sold their home in Ringgold, GA. I’m still friends with him and his wife today. What if I had not heeded that still small voice?

Right now, I feel like a lost person trying to find my way again in the world. Patience has never been one of my virtues. I am learning to be happy in this new phase of my life. Yes, it gets lonely. I’m thankful that Charles insisted on me getting Chloe right after my Tag died. So many deaths in the month of March and he insisted on me getting a new little puppy. How could another puppy ever replace my Tag? Tag who always knew when I was sick and would lay on my stomach. That was the only time she would do that. How did Charles know that after he died that I would hold that little puppy close to me and cry and Chloe would lick my tears? No, Chloe did not take Tag’s place, she’s different. She’s actually more affectionate and stays right by my side. She wants my undivided attention. When someone calls me, I have to go out on the porch or close the door because she barks. She knows my daughter’s and son-in-law’s voice and “talks” to them on the phone. Yes, I know you think I’m crazy—but she has helped me this past year and a half.

What lies ahead? I don’t have any idea. Detours? I don’t know. I’ll just listen to that inner voice and go.

DR
10/20/11