Shadows

Did you ever stop and think about a shadow?

Think about it. A shadow can be a protection. We stand in the shadows in the hot summer to avoid the oppressive sun and heat. A shadow can help lead the way and show where to step next. A shadow can hide you so that you aren't seen as well.

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As kids, being the oldest child in our family, I was usually the one to be "First". First to walk, first to go to school, first to drive, first to graduate, first to go to college... you know, typical older sibling stuff. By nature I am independent and proud of it. :)

For the past 15 years I have lived at least 4 hours from my nearest family member. But, I was the first to move out, the first to make it on my own, the first to begin my career.

Now I have moved to Florida.

It's exciting! I have a new job and I will be living with my sister and then, when my house sells, I will rent some where close by. I am soooooo very excited to be here! My new job is becoming more and more exciting as I learn about my roles and responsibilities. It brings new challenges, new possibilities, and new people. I am so excited.

So, in all this change, I think about how I have lived my life. I think about growing up and remember how my siblings lived in the shadow I cast. Because I did something right, my parents were more apt to trust them. Because I messed up, they didn't make the same mistake on the rest. Well, since moving down here I feel a little like roles have changed. My sister, who I feel like lived somewhat in my shadow because of our family placement and how independent I have always been.... now seems to be the one casting the shadow on me.

It's a new place for me. It's a good place for me.

I am being welcomed into a community where instead of leading the way like I usually do---my sister already has established deep, meaningful, Godly relationships. She has a strong connection of friends. She has husband and son who are amazing. She has a job that, may just be the coolest job ever. She is the one who is settled here and lives here. I am the newbie. I see that I am now living, somewhat in her shadow. It is kinda cool!

I still sometimes view Amanda (and Krista and Grant) as my little sisters and brother. I know they are old and all grown up (smile!) but I still like to think I helped motivate them, encouraged them and blazed a trail, however minute, for them. I cast a shadow for them.

I guess, as I think about it, among my siblings, I may have been a shadow caster for them. But in life, Oh how I have lived in the shadows of so many!

I have taught with amazing teachers over the years who have cast shadows.

I have worked with dedicated co-workers who have cast shadows.

I have served with gracious brothers and sisters in Christ who have cast shadows.

I have done life with incredible friends who have cast shadows.

I went to school with visionary classmates who have cast shadows.

I was raised with God-honoring parents who cast shadows.

I have loving siblings who have cast shadows.

My prayer for you is that in your life, you have had, and still have those who cast shadows for you. Shadows that encourage, protect and enable you to live a full life.