Why Should I Ask For Forgiveness?

Some time ago, we instituted a change in our home.  When one of us hurt another member of the family, we would not allow that offender to say "I'm sorry."  We required instead that the one at fault ask the other, "will you forgive me?"  

I had no idea what a powerful difference this would make. It's remarkable that a child (or an adult for that matter) can learn to mouth the words "I'm sorry" like a memorized line in a stage play without ever engaging his or her heart.

The difference in these two phrases goes beyond the words. The difference is actually a shift from a monologue to a dialogue. I can throw the words out and never know (or care) if the apology is received in the heart-disengaged monologue. If, however, I look the offended person in the eye and ask for forgiveness, I must wait to receive his or her response.  And as I have found, it's nearly impossible to "fake" asking for forgiveness.

    

15

Today, my oldest turned 15.  That's her on the right.  I am very blessed to be her father and quite proud of the young woman she is becoming.  Happy birthday "D. girl."   I love you.   -Dad

5 Guys & a Whole Lot of Fries!

Last Monday, my family and I came across a wonderful burger joint.  I had noticed signs for 5 Guys Burgers & Fries, but this was the first visit.  It will not be the last!

The menu is simple, some may even say minimal.  You basically can choose between a burger, a hot dog, or a veggie sandwich. The burgers are available in two sizes.  We opted for the "Lil", and it was quite filling.  The free peanuts at your table while you wait is a fun touch.  Having the food prepared in sight was different...kinda like Subway, making burgers.  I found it somewhat odd that a chalkboard displayed where the potatoes were from for that particular day.  It should have been a bit of foreshadowing that we were about to be defeated by the most-delicious-closest-thing-to-homemade french fries we had ever experienced.  There are 6 of us, so I ordered a large fry, thinking we would all get a little taste.  WRONG!

The large fry came in a big, brown, paper bag.  We ate, ate, and ate as much as we could, but still there was more. It was a bag of never-ending fries, and they were delicious!

Do yourself a favor: Get to 5 Guys and prepare yourself for fries.   

A Family Prayer

This has become a daily, family prayer for us:

Lord, please give us...

minds that are hungry...
hearts that are tender...
hands that are ready...
words that build up...

and help us to extend compassion and mercy to others while speaking the truth.