I really enjoyed this story that I read today and what the author had to say about it, I just wanted to share. :)

One morning a Sunday school teacher asked her class a question. "Children, what is brown, has a bushy tail, and gathers nuts?"
Silence.
"Come on, children, this is not a difficult question. What is brown, has a long bushy tail, and gathers nuts?"
Silence again.
Finally the teacher addressed one of the boys. "Simon, I know you must know. Tell me what is brown, has a bushy tail, and gathers nuts."
Simon replied, "Well, I know the answer is Jesus, but it sure sounds like a squirrel to me!"

"...We want to say the right thing even if it sounds like a squirrel to us! Within the Christian community we seem to put pressure on ourselves and each other to say the right thing rather than the true thing. Obviously there are many times when the true thing and the right thing are the same, but when they aren't, we often respond as Simon did.

Ever been there? Ever felt as if the answer you are supposed to come up with as a faithful believer is a million miles away from what your heart is experiencing?"

I am so thankful for true sisters and brothers in Christ who can handle it when I speak truthfully about my struggles, doubts, and joys...who will not judge me or walk away, but stand by and love unconditionally...and when there are no words to say, just hold me closely. I wish that everyone could experience the true kinship that being God's child can really bring. These people are a gift from God...and a breath of fresh air from those who walk away when you struggle bc they can't handle the "true" thing-- that some of us are weak and hurting and can't find the "right" thing to say. God is good despite all that happens in life.