So as usual.. I am posting as a reaction to the chapter I just read in Captivating. It was titled 'mothers, daughters and sisters'. It was beautiful and just what I needed to hear tonight. It talked about the author's history with her mother and how destructive their relationship was. But I seem to think that is normal. When I was in high school and also when I came to western I was jealous when I heard of someone having a relationship with their mother that was like a friendship. I was never close with mine like some people I know. But I was still able to learn so much from her. How to be strong. How to show love. What faith in God looked like. What family meant.

I am so grateful for her and all she went through. For those of you who know my families story, you know my mother had to be strong. So after reading this chapter, crying for a few minutes and getting a little homesick... I decided to send her an email telling how mucho love her and how proud I am of all she does and all the sacrifices she has made for me.

I am starting to realize how thankful I am for the people around me. The people who offer their hearts and listen to mine. They are all around. My dgroup, my family, my close friends and the women in bowling green that take me under their wing. All these girls are so unbelievably beautiful and have a heart for God that inspires me every day. The weather can make us be grateful, and so can things that happen, but recently when it's been cold outside or stormy, and life has been crazy busy.. My wonderful friends have warmed my heart. I am so blessed and it's one more reason to praise the God who is sovereign and reigning today and tomorrow.

Oh gently lay your head
Upon My chest
And I will comfort you like a Mother while you rest.
The tide can change so fast
But I will stay
The same through Past, the same in Future,
Same Today.

Oh weary, tired and worn
Let out your sighs
And drop that heavy load you hold
Cuz Mine is light.
I know you through and through
There's no need to hide.

For I am constant.
I am near
I am peace that shatters all your secret fears.
I am holy.
I am wise.
I am the only One, who knows your heart's desires.

Oh gently lay your head upon My chest
And I will comfort you like a Mother
While you rest.
-Jill Phillipsl