Growing up there was one sure way to get into A LOT of trouble and that was lying to my parents. Regardless of what had happened, it would only get worse if you were not truthful. My brothers and I certainly tested our parents. Like the time my middle brother and I burnt his end of the year report card because he made a F in a subject. (I don’t even remember the subject was). I was in the 8th grade and he was in the 6th. We burnt his report card in the field in front of our house. My poor Mom looked for my brother’s report card for weeks. Finally, she called the school and they told her he passed to the 7th grade and she let it go. (Thankfully) Years later we finally told her and she laughed (kinda.) We got away with this one but it was rare. As many of you know, mamas always know.
On my way to work this morning, I heard this song about lying. It is actually Fear is a Liar. Here are some of the words to this song:
When he told you you’re not good enough
When he told you you’re not right
When he told you you’re not strong enough
To put up a good fight
When he told you you’re not worthy
When he told you you’re not loved
When he told you you’re not beautiful
That you’ll never be enough
Fear he is a liar
He will take your breath
Stop you in your steps
Fear he is a liar
He will rob your rest
Steal your happiness
Zach Williams http://zachwilliamsmusic.com
I found strength and reassurance in the words of this song. Fear keeps us from doing a lot of things that benefit us. Example: We drive the speed limit for the “fear” of getting a ticket. We respected our parents for “fear” of being in trouble. However, fear can keep us from taking chances that are good for us and fear can rob us of happiness and self-worth.
As I was listening to these words, I thought of the times when I was told I was not good enough or strong enough. I thought of the times when I was bullied during middle school for being “short for my weight” and having this crazy curly (not popular in the early 80’s) hair. While I always felt loved by my parents and my sweet brothers, friends were very few in numbers. Today, I am very fortunate that I have a supportive family and friends PLUS I have great work family.
Today & every day, I want you all to know that you are valuable, worthy, beautiful, needed, and strong. You make a difference and for you, I am thankful. I hope that you will think about this song when you are having a bad day or do not feel like you are worthy or valuable. Life can be hard and we can all feel beat down. However, difficult times are temporary and through persistence—you (we) can overcome.
I hope you all have a safe and happy Memorial Weekend.
Mindy West