I let her be the "moat monster." Wasn't that benevolent of me? 

  "Moat Monster" was one of the odd little games my friends and I played at 6th grade recess (not to be confused with "Sea Monster" which was played on our front porch with our neighbors.) At a corner of the school building, an imaginary line was drawn. If we crossed into the moat, we risked being captured by the creature where we were trapped until rescued.  

Yep, she was the new girl and didn't fit in. Her clothes looked like they may have belonged to her mother, her personality was nothing like Marcia Brady (or even Jan for that matter), and she didn't have a shape like Barbie's little sister, Skipper. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBJ2zO-tl58.

Would I be inviting her to a slumber party? No way! However, since it was the "right" thing to do, I encouraged her inclusion into our game as the infamous beast living in the water surrounding the castle. Did I mention no one else wanted to play the behemoth? She seemed glad to be included. I know I was a child and that I had my own wounds and insecurities, but I am ashamed as I recall this story.  More than anyone else present, this little girl needed to be the beautiful princess; the one valued and worth rescuing. sigh. For whatever reason, I don't think this family stayed very long in my hometown.  I am sorry, Dena.  

Thank you, Jesus, for valuing and rescuing each and every one of us as your little princesses and princes out of the moat. No more moat monsters! 

Brother Mick's message this week is "No Visible Wounds" with his sermon text from Ephesians 4:25-32. "We desire to follow after Jesus the Christ and his example. To live as he has instructed us to live; loving one another, caring for each other. And yet in the midst of these desires and best intentions sometimes the people of God can still wound one another."  Our brother continues to challenge us with meaningful and inspiring messages; this is likely to be yet another such word. Take a listen to some of the past sermons at:

http://ridgeviewmennonite.net/sermons/index.php

During Sunday school in the Upper Room, we'll finish up any discussion on last week's conversation, and then begin a discussion on this post about missions from The Mennonite.  I look forward to a full room and a lively discussion!  All ages are welcome.
http://www.themennonite.org/public_press_releases/A_moratorium_on_missions

c 1970's --My Dad, who has helped roast birds
 every year since the beginning of the festival.

Hometown readers, have fun at the Tremont Turkey Festival. I wish I could be there! :) http://www.turkeyfestival.com/  

The countdown is on for Korinne and Ian!  As the MOB (mother of the bride!), I will not be posting the communique next week. :) 

A prayer for today:  Creator God, we find meaning in You. Help us to truly know and understand that Your love is greater than our fears. You are our light and our salvation. You rescue us from the depths and monsters of the moats.  Grant us courage to truly live today. Come Kingdom of God. Be done will of God, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus name. Amen. 

Without question or doubt, you are LOVED by GOD, and I love you too! 

Need to talk?  Contact me! 

Love and Light, 

Carol

http://www.ridgeviewmennonite.net/

"Always remember who you are, whose you are, where you are going, and what you believe, because it does make a difference! Oh, and don't forget to attend a church of your choice this weekend." jd