In celebration of our upcoming 8th anniversary, here is part two of our special blog series containing the messages we sent to each other on Facebook that led to our falling in love. In less than a year, Carol and I wrote over 115,000 words to each other. The messages in this series follow us through the first two or so months of our relationship. During this time, we only talked through written messages on Facebook. We did not talk, text or meet in person. It was our agreement from the beginning, that since neither of us was wanting to date or pursue a serious relationship, we would confine our talks to messages only. But in doing so, as we became more comfortable with each other, we began to pour out our hearts. We became friends first, then confidants, and finally as God worked through our communications, the light of love erupted and flooded into our messages and our lives. In part 2, we begin to trust each other more and the tide begins to turn from casual friendship to love. As in part one, my messages to Carol are in black text and hers to me are in bold blue. There are some places where you will see that content has been deleted so as not to reveal very personal and private details of our lives.
In case you haven’t read “Part One: A God Thing from the Beginning,” I have included a link at the bottom of this post.
The Early Facebook Messages of Carol and Larry – Part Two of Three
October 1, 2013
Thank you for including me in your prayers. You are a big blessing in my life. I’m so glad for having you to talk to and share things with.
You are so much better and wiser than me in spiritual discernment. I like hearing what you have to say and value your opinion.
I pray the same thing for you, that God will put someone in your life who will recognize and appreciate your closeness and love for The Lord and give you the respect and freedom to go out and do all the things that in your beautiful heart waiting to be accomplished.
Talk again later friend
What beautiful words flow from you my friend! You make me blush with your compliments. I am still very timid when it comes to trusting someone so let me just say I do value the friendship that we have already cultivated thru God’s word and from our like mindness of loving the Lord. Sherry is kind of pressuring me to talk with you or at least text. I know she is excited because she senses the mutual camaraderie that we share for our Heavenly Father! But I don’t think she realizes how really fragile both our hearts are at this moment. And I for one have been so quick to let others lead me that I don’t take time to enjoy and cherish what God is planting. I hope you can appreciate and agree with how I feel about this. If you are where I believe you are emotionally and spiritually then I think you will totally confirm that this way of communicating is perfect for now. I must admit I do get anxious for your messages but I think that’s part of the fun right now too lol hope I am not being a tease or whatever some might call it. But if this is not enough for you at this time I will understand but I would be deeply saddened if I lost your friendship now.
Don’t know why I felt the need to say that guess I just wanted to make sure we are on the same page I would never want to make you feel I was taking advantage of your feelings or friendship! You have been a Godsend when it comes to healing my heart and my spirit. I praise God for knowing exactly what we need and when!!
I wanted to share a little of my devotional with you today…1 Corinthians 7:16 How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? …the devotion tells the story of Mary Custis, great-granddaughter of Martha Washington, she married Robert E. Lee in 1831. Just before they married Mary placed her faith in Christ and said “I was made to feel willing to give up all for God, even my life if God should require it.” Mary prayed for Robert and he accepted Christ soon after… what Mary had said reminded of our conversations about persecution and being willing to lay down our life. I just felt that this devotion flowed right into what we had said. I know I had prayed for years for my husband and there were many times that I doubted but I have to remember it is all for God’s purpose and God’s reasoning that things happen. I also have to remember like I have said “just because I don’t do things your way doesn’t mean its the wrong way”. I just pray that I always reflect Jesus to others his way so they move toward him and never away!
I have to get ready to go to the doctor now. I finally gave in and am going to get a shot to get rid of this crud!! I have kept company with it long enough lol hope you had an awesome walk was with you in spirit if nothing else:) until later my friend.
Hi Carol…Got back from the walk and then fell asleep for a few minutes in this chair.
I appreciate you expressing your feelings openly. I completely agree with you. There is no rush at all for you and I to do anything to move our friendship along to some other level. I don’t think at all that you are being a tease, and I don’t mean to intentionally.
On your end, I don’t know how close you are to Sherry or how close she has been to what’s going on in your life. I don’t know what, if any, involvement and influence she has. On my end, she is very close and has been watching me go through some intense stuff. Similar to some of my other closer friends, she encourages me to seek companionship as a way of healing and moving forward. And she has mentioned several times that I need to move forward to a next step with you. I love Sherry and appreciate that she cares about me, but I hope I can let God lead me in my relationships and not pursue them because somebody else thinks I should or because I am infatuated or looking for something on an emotional or physical level to ease pain and take my mind off the past.
Here are some thoughts from my point of view about our friendship:
I do think that God brought you into my life. I enjoy our talks and look forward to hearing from you. You are the first person of the opposite sex I’ve ever known who I can really talk to and share with about the Lord and about trying to live life with Him as the Center.
I don’t have any additional expectations from you as a friend or otherwise. Not only that, I don’t even know what God has planned for me. It is up to Him whether or not there is to be another “relationship” for me. That being said, I will never pressure or even nudge you in a direction that is against His will or yours. I am glad for what we do share.
I want to try my best to be completely truthful with you in everything. That is one of my goals in our friendship. In the past, I have found myself to be playing word games back and forth with people. I don’t know if this makes sense or not, but in my experience, people (and if I am to be honest I must include myself) use half truths to make things look some way that they really aren’t and then use that false picture to manipulate. I don’t want to ever do that with you. I’ll just tell the truth for better or worse, and I know you will too.
So the truth is that I’m scared about life right now. I thought I was hearing God about some things but I guess I was wrong. I thought I could trust myself to make good decisions, but I didn’t. Because I do care about you, the last thing I want to do is drag you into something that isn’t right. I have purposely avoided getting too personal with you about what I have been and am going through.
In all that you see of me as far as my faith and belief in Jesus Christ, it is really true. That is who I am. With all my heart I love God. I desire to put Him first, follow Him and serve Him. I’ll be the first to tell you, though, that I am far from accomplishing that. But I will never stop pressing forward toward the prize of the high calling of God in Jesus Christ. I don’t press forward to get a reward. God doesn’t owe me anything. He’s continued to bless me when I far from deserved it. I just love Him and want to do something to show him.
Anyway, I felt compelled to respond to the feeling I got from your message. I will understand if me being me offends you or scares you. I never want to hurt you or make you uncomfortable. I’m sorry this letter is so one sided. I just wanted to spit out my feelings. I sure hope you get well soon. Definitely, you should go to the doc for that shot. You are always in my prayers.
I’ve enjoyed every minute of our friendship, just the way it is now. i trust God to define where we go in our journey together. I hope that my friendship makes your life better some way. You have made mine better for sure…take care, Larry
I want to leave you with one of my favorite message bible passages, Matthew 11:27-30.
Matthew 11:27-30 MSG: 27 Jesus resumed talking to the people, but now tenderly. “The Father has given me all these things to do and say. This is a unique Father-Son operation, coming out of Father and Son intimacies and knowledge. No one knows the Son the way the Father does, nor the Father the way the Son does. But I’m not keeping it to myself; I’m ready to go over it line by line with anyone willing to listen. 28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Hi Larry, I love that passage that you quoted,,,, to come to Jesus when you are worn out and weary and also teaching us to live freely. Its just so inviting and peaceful! God is so good!! I appreciate all that you said. It does ease my mind knowing that you feel the same way I do:) Sherry has been a big influence in my life since I have met her just over a year ago and she does have some knowledge of what I have been thru. I know that she loves you deeply and does not want to see you hurt again. So, I would not do anything intentionally to hurt either of you. I do have the highest respect for you both.
I did go the doctor but she didn’t give me the shot. They just don’t listen too well to the patient lol she said I have bronchitis and she put me on a strong antibiotic…I told her when I have to come back in a couple of days for the shot I would say I told you so! She said ok, you can say I told you so! We shall see…
I pray God sends his angels charge over you! Will talk soon, your penpal Carol:)
hey I found a translation i really like. called the “Easy to Read” version: Acts 17 27 God wanted people to look for him, and perhaps in searching all around for him, they would find him. But he is not far from any of us. 28 It is through him that we are able to live, to do what we do, and to be who we are. As your own poets have said, ‘We all come from him.’
I really like the easy to read:)
Ahh, there’s more. The bible is blowing my mind tonight. Paul was commending the Colossians for their faithful work and love. He said to them
(5) The lines of purpose in your lives never grow slack, tightly tied as they are to your future in heaven, kept taut by hope. Colossians 1:5a (MSG)
And also he said
As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. Colossians 1:10c (MSG)
Sorry to bombard you with scripture all the time. I just get awestruck by it
I love love love you sharing your reading with me! Please don’t stop, I really do enjoy it.
October 2, 2013
Good Morning Larry! Hope your day is going good. I believe you said you would be traveling today just wanted to pray for safe travels and that you are feeling well today. May the Lord shine upon you, bless you and bring peace into your life! In Jesus Name Amen…
Oh and I wanted to say; anytime you feel the need to talk personal or about what is going on with you I am happy to be a sounding board. I know sometimes it just helps to vent… chat later, your friend Carol:)
Hi Carol,
It was nice to look in messages and see you there.
Thanks for the offer to talk. It’s good to know I have a sounding board if needed.
Anyway, remembering you in prayer today in Jesus Name that you will feel good and have a productive day and weekend.
Thank you for brightening my day. Your friend Larry
I had a really good day today! Your cousin Susan asked me if we were still talking and I said yes. She said you and I are just alike so I don’t know if you should feel like that is a compliment or not lol but if I remind them of you then that is a very high compliment to me! I do admire your Godly manner and I appreciate the inspiration I receive when I talk with you.…until later my penpal, Carol:)
Hi Carol,
So Susan said we were just alike…lol. I think that is a high compliment for me, not sure if it goes that way for you. Like I’ve said before, I’m not that good. Echoing Paul, I am the chiefest of sinners. And I throw myself on God’s mercy every day. He has always been faithful and true to me, and I pray every day that He will use me in spite of myself. I don’t deserve a reward, and that’s not what I’m after. I love God so much and have given Him a promise that I will do my best to be faithful and true to Him, regardless of the circumstances. On the other hand, God put a good feeling in my spirit about you. I’m not at all saying that to butter you up or as ploy to get you to do something. God has made me a discerner, and my heart tells me that you are strong and faithful and true. I know you are “fragile” as you say. I know what you mean when you say that. I am so very much fragile myself right now. And the fragility for me is a feeling similar to being scared that sits there in the background of my mind and heart through everything I do these days and threatens me with the possibility of falling apart. It may be different for you.
But i think that God put me here to encourage you and let you know that His love is not distant. It is not a myth or fairy tale to dream about and just hope it’s true. It is true, you know that. But He wants you to know that He is with you and is speaking to you in every aspect of your life through circumstance and people, even in the smallest of details.
Back on my end, I think God wants to show me through you what it means to have a good and faithful and true heart, and by doing so my own heart is made glad.
Anyway, looks like I’ve said too much and put my foot in my mouth again. Better stop now. Wishing you a blessed and happy day tomorrow and praying for you. Goodnight Penpal.
Hi Larry, you encourage me thru every word you say! I hope you know just how much I am blown away by every message that I read. Sometimes I am speechless and not sure what to say without sounding like a 2nd grader. As I attempt to express myself please forgive me if I sound like a foolish child. I have heard about Susan’s past and she does seem to be doing really good now. I met her husband in Gatlinburg at wild retreat and he really nice.I am getting very sleepy so I will let you go for tonight and talk with you tomorrow. Sweet dreams my friend, Carol:)
October 6, 2013
Hey Carol…It’s one of those afternoons I have sometimes when I am feeling overwhelmed by life. I’ve been looking at everything in a retrospective way and wondering why I ended up where I am. There were so many directions that things went in and just as many that things could have gone in.
What a wonderful life. Though during much of it I did not acknowledge the Living God or profess Jesus as Lord and Savior, every moment glistens like a precious jewel as I look back. From boyhood on the farm with a godly dad and grandparents to the dreamy years of traveling the country playing music, God’s hand is apparent. But it’s still hard to understand because I am so not good or worthy or talented enough to have had that charmed life.
In the last 7 years, I lost my three best friends and my dad who all knew the real me and still loved me. Every one of those people were way better and more worthy than me to be blessed the way I have been. All of those people, had they lived, would have accomplished so much more for the good of the people around them than me.
But here I am, still here, the one who can’t even manage his own affairs. It’s only by the grace of God that I make it day by day. And yet He continues to fill up my life with blessing after blessing.
I am a living testimony that God’s love and mercy and grace are not based on worthiness.
I think back on that verse in 1 Timothy I sent you last night:
The whole point of what we’re urging is simply love – love uncontaminated by self-interest and counterfeit faith, a life open to God. 1 Timothy 1:5 (MSG)
When I look in my own heart, I know that my faith is not counterfeit, it’s real for sure.
But is my love uncontaminated by self-interest? I will have to admit that sometimes I do things, including love others, because the result is to my benefit. The world itself seems to be driven by self-interest.
Looking at that verse it seems like true godly love = a life open to God. What does it take for someone to get there? That’s why we need Jesus. On our own, being worthy to approach God would be impossible.
Through Jesus we can approach God and literally fall at His feet. In doing so, we get taste of His mighty, unending love.
I’m thankful for this understanding of who I am and where I need to be going. It is obvious that there needs to me more of Him and less of me. We won’t achieve it here on earth, but we must strive to be more like Jesus.
Anyway, stopping here. Just thought I’d share these thoughts. I want you to really know me and not get an impression that’s not true.
Hope your day was awesome friend. God Bless
Good Evening My Friend, it sounds like you have had an evening of personal reflection. That is good and I am happy you shared your thoughts with me. I want to know the true you. And I sincerely hope that you get to know the real me. Sometimes I get to that same place you described and feel like I have cheated death because so many much more deserving people have gone and I am still here. However, God quickly reminds me that it is not by my might but his and only he knows the reasoning behind his plans and I ask for forgiveness and thank him for allowing me to be the example that someone needed to see today whether good or bad God will use it. I have been blessed in so many ways they are like sand on a beach i couldn’t even begin to count them! You have truely had an amazing life and evidently the Lord still sees great things for you and I am confident that you have plenty of tears of joy and sorrow to shed. As the song says…”it will be worth it after all”
Hey…thanks for encouraging me by sharing from your experience and reminding me of what is true. Isn’t it amazing how God does intertwine events and circumstances in our lives, leaving no doubt of His presence and His voice. I want my heart to be right. I want to live in a way that is true to God and pleasing to Him. I want to reach others for Him and be a blessing to them. I appreciate you. You are a blessing to me. Goodnight. God bless you and keep you.
October 7, 2013
Good Morning Larry, I pray you are having a crisp cool day in the Lord!! Seems a bit chilly as I sit here on my front porch this morning lol but I love to enjoy the morning air as I drink my coffee and have my first moments with the Lord:) it just gets me going to share the first thoughts, sights and feelings with my maker!
I fell asleep last night before I could read your scripture for the night and slept late this morning so it was my wake up reading lol and it was perfect it refreshed me about everything I heard yesterday. Life is so wonderful when it is in the Master’s hands and I pray that we both allow him to create the masterpiece that he will write his name on for today! For when the brushstrokes are made by his very hands a beautiful painting will emerge. I pray God takes my ashes and gives beauty as he is faithful to do and you my friend have already shown your beauty from ashes!! I am so blessed every time we talk! I do thank my Heavenly Father with every remembrance of you:)
I must be getting started with my day as I am running so late already. But I had to share my morning with you my sweet sweet friend, may God shine upon you, protect you and always remind you how truely loved and his you eternally are!! Your penpal, Carol 😀
Hi…praying that God directs your decisions, lets you hear His voice clearly and lights your path. I am so glad that you include Him in your decisions and acknowledge Him in your comings and goings. That’s awesome! Talk later good friend, Larry
Hey…was thinking about you and wanted to check in before it gets late. How was your day? Hope it was good.
I need to tell you please don’t underestimate yourself. You can do anything you set your mind to because you love God and are called according to His purpose. I feel that in you. No one is perfect or does things perfectly, but when the heart is right Romans 8:28 becomes a reality.
Don’t ever feel pressured about our friendship and where it is going. I know Sherry is bearing down on you and she’s talking to me too. But you just do what is right for you and what God directs you to do.
I care about you and want to be a friend on the level that God wants us on and the one that feels right to you. There is no pressure. I won’t change on you. I’m here and will be here as long as you want me to be.
Evening Larry, I pray you had a good practice:) I had a pretty good day just had a lot on my mind. Sherry and I had a long talk tonight after our meeting about my Mary Kay career. She also ask if I had talked with her buddy (you) I said yesss! She said talked?? I said messaged…she said I needed to talk to you!! I told her I would pray about it. So we will see:)
I see you sent me a message so I will send this so you can go ahead and read while I check yours lol
Ok, I am crying now! You said a lot of what I needed to hear. Thank you:) I guess we both put too much pressure on ourselves sometimes. When we get so close to such an awesome God its even easier to see how short we fall. My imperfections seem to really stand out to me especially when I am around someone like you that I can feel God’s presence so strongly!
I am sorry. I don’t mean to have a meltdown on you today has been one of those days that the ‘real’ me has been confronting me. Its not to pretty at times. I appreciate you being so good to me.
October 8, 2013
It’s okay to have a meltdown once in a while. I’m serious in saying that I’m about as imperfect as anyone could be. I don’t feel good about myself in a lot of ways right now. And I don’t feel confident at all, especially around someone of the opposite sex who I like. I think I understand a little about what you are feeling, and it’s not just you who feels that way. It’s easy for me to talk the way we do because I am a natural writer and articulate in that way. But when I do think about us meeting in person I feel really awkward. It is because of me not you. When I came out of my last relationship my trust, and self-esteem and confidence was completely shattered. I had let myself go and the result was getting fat and lazy and irresponsible.
The one thing I held onto was trust in God. Throughout my whole ordeal, I did not pull away from Him. I huddled closer and threw myself in His arms. And something happened. In the midst of my despair, I began to sense, see, feel, touch, hear and know the presence of the Holy Spirit inside of me. It was awesome. I would sometimes sit there being sadder then I’ve ever been in my life and yet alongside my sadness was His beautiful presence. I knew then what it meant for Him to be a light for my pathway and lamp for my feet. Wow it makes me so happy to remember that.
I learned that in spite of my state of being there was a Solid Rock under me.
Anyway, that’s a lot of words just to say that it scares me a little to think about you and I meeting because I don’t feel too good about myself.
But I’m glad for the chance to be totally honest with you about everything. And I think that if we did meet, I wouldn’t be disappointed because I know you would be just who you are now.
It doesn’t really matter to me what’s going on with you in the background, behind our talks. I got stuff going on too. But I believe that in everything going on with you that you have the same heart as the one I know.
There ain’t nothing fancy about me at all. I don’t have a lot. But I have enough because God provides.
Now about you. You are awesome. You are way too good for me, and I feel honored that you like talking to me. Don’t let circumstances or what anyone says or thinks pull you down. You are beautiful inside and out. You have reason to feel good about yourself. God put you where you are to be an inspiration. I don’t know anything about your personal life, but God is telling me in my spirit that your beautiful heart touches and inspires other people who are in your life. You are wanted and needed and loved, most of all by God and then by the people God has put in your life. He is using you for His will and purpose and through all that you go through, you are becoming stronger and closer and more steadfast in His love.
Well, stopping here. Want to say again that I don’t expect or require anything from you. I’m just glad we are friends and I hope we can always be
Thank you my sweet sweet friend and yes I am crying again! But its a good cry:) I want you to know that I am not about a person’s looks, status or anything of that sort. I fall in love with a person’s heart! I believe everyone has good its just harder to find in some. I could definitely lose a few pounds so do not let that concern you. (personal content deleted) Good night my friend and God will tell us when it is time to meet, Carol
I’m glad you felt comfortable enough with me to tell me about the choices you are facing. I have some thoughts about it. It is not really advice and may be more like rambling. It may not help, but I hope that at least you will know that i do listen to you and am always ready to when you need an ear.
Last night I reminded you never to underestimate yourself. Today I feel that God is prompting me to say also don’t ever underestimate Him. He is working in every moment of your life.
Right now you have choices that are not that easy to make decisions about. This is what God has shown me. I have spent a lot of time searching for God’s will in my life. After a good bit of prayer, I learned that God’s will is not something we have to travel to or search for or reach. It may actually only loosely be connected to our own ideas of what our calling or skills or talents or dreams are.
For His children, God’s will exists in the present and operates in real time. It is not something distant. In every moment of life there are choices and options. One or more of the choices or options are the ones God would have you to make and the others will not be the right ones.
So no matter how far out of God’s will someone gets, or how bad or uncertain things seem, we are only a choice away from being back in His will. Wherever you are at at the moment, you can choose to put your eyes on Him and submit and follow Him.
It is easy for us to get caught up in the emotions and feelings of urgency that surround critical situations in life. And it makes us feel as if we have to do something right away. Often we feel that if we do not react in a timely manner, then we have neglected our something important or let somebody down or dropped the ball some way.
So all of that was said to say this one thing. Always act and don’t react emotionally or out of a sense of urgency. Don’t feel as if you need to take an immediate “big step” when you see a “smaller step” that is for sure in the right direction.
I’m already sure that you always pray about things. As you look to see the answer to prayers, take a look at what choices in your life will allow you to move closer to Him? What choices are better not only for you but for the others you are responsible for. Finally what choices will truly make your life better in the long run and not just “quick fix” problems.
Pray. Look at the choices and think about which one seems to be the one God would have you make. What would Jesus do? Take small steps when possible and avoid giant leaps that can’t easily be changed or reversed; act and don’t react emotionally.
Sometimes there are no small steps and our only choice seems to be a big leap. If that big leap will move you closer to God then go ahead and jump. We can do anything, even walk on water when we truly believe in our hearts and are walking toward Him or following Him.
I spent a lifetime thinking that I knew what my destiny was. I did everything to prepare for it and even had a little success with it. But it wasn’t really best for me and for my loved ones. Then, one day, the circumstances of my life brought me to an opportunity that was never in my plans. I found myself having to make better choices that would have the most positive impact on my family. They were not the choices based on my dreams or on logic. Unplanned circumstances revealed my aptitude for computers. Unplanned circumstances allowed me to meet people who mentored me in those areas. Unplanned circumstances allowed me to get experience. And one day, an unexpected opportunity launched my career. Go figure that you say? As I now look back I see the hand of God in every circumstance. As I look to the past, live in the present and look to the future, I see the purpose that God had and has for me here at the place where my life and career is now and where it is going.
Your can trust our wonderful Father. He has our best interests at heart. We do the best we can to make the right choices then just let go and trust Him. If we see we have made a wrong choice, we get our bearings and turn back around in His direction. It’s a win, win situation because we have an Intercessor, a High Priest who can intercede with the Father for us when we do fail. And then our Beautiful Savior, the Lord Jesus picks us up, lets us rest in His arms and carries us to safety. He puts people in our lives who can be a testimony of His love and concern for us.
I’m thankful he put you here as my friend. I see Him in you, and there is light where a dark place had been. It’s another example of something unplanned that testifies of Him and makes life better.
take care friend. thinking about you. have a blessed rest of the day. Larry
Good evening Larry, thank you so much for the kind words! I appreciate you taking time to honestly talk with me. And I like how you gave me advice without telling me what to do:) you brought up very good points and I believe you when you say whether I do this or that God won’t think any less of me. Praise God he does love us unconditionally! Because I know I am so unloveable a lot of the time. I like how you said to live in the present to make the decisions in the now. I do get wrapped up in tomorrow and the what ifs? That doesn’t do me any good either. Well I will go for now my sweet friend, will talk soon Carol:)
God is putting things into place for you. He always opens up a way, and I do believe in you. I guess I’ll stop here for tonight. This has been one of those evenings when I feel kind of sad. I know that’s selfish but it happens sometimes. I’ve been praying a lot, more than usual, not so much for myself but for everyone in my heart and on my mind. I did talk to God a lot about how I was feeling but without asking for anything really. There’s nothing really that I need. I’m not even sure why I get down like this.
I am so happy that things are looking up for you. Please keep your eyes on Him and stay real. Don’t become a “show biz” person like me sometimes not being sure which you is the real you. I know you will stay grounded in the truth and the real purpose of life.
I pray for you in Jesus name that every aspect of what you do will be guided by Him. That He will provide everything you need to be successful and become stable. I pray to the Father for healing and good health for you. I pray that you will have a life of peace and happiness and good experiences with good people around you who love and fear God. I pray that He will use you to lead other people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to a better life. I pray for the good health and safety of your children and your family. And I ask Him to let you know true fulfillment for yourself.
October 9, 2013
Good Morning my sweetness! I must call you that because you bring such a sweet fragrance in to my life every time I read a message from you!! I pray your day is going well. I have been up since 6 but haven’t gotten into the swing of the day lol my daughter has been talking my ears off! She has finally left me alone so I can take a few minutes to check in with you:)
I fell asleep last night waiting for you to respond. Sorry bout that here lately I am so exhausted I pass out when my head hits the pillow! I am sorry you had the blues last night and I wasn’t able to help. You encourage and inspire me in so many ways I want to be there for you as well. Never forget to flip over to Psalm 91 and read the chapter out loud when depression tries to come. This those scriptures have take me thru so many valleys at one time I think my heart was singing them when I didn’t even know it!! You are an amazing Child of God and never allow circumstance to let you forget that! I am very proud to call you friend and I know in my heart God has placed you on my path if nothing else but to show me a true example of a Godly man. Never feel that your emotions are selfish! You have every right to your feelings and I would rather you be open about your feelings than to not be ‘real’ all of the time. Guess I better get a move on or I won’t be accomplishing anything today:/ have a beautiful day in the Lord my friend and smile Jesus love you!!! Your penpal, Carol:)
“Your the music in my heart!” Or “of my heart” …just heard this song for the first time on the fix!! It sounded like Nicole C. Mullins…it was so beautiful and I thought of you. Just had to share lol
Oh cool….thanks. I like Nicole Mullins. I will see if I can find that song. Am trying to write you a kind of explanation about me and my moods (as if you need anything like that…lol). Thank you for being there for me with the word of God and for encouraging me. I feel much better. Look for a message in a bit.
Hi Carol…thanks again for encouraging me and reminding me that everything is okay. Something usually triggers me feeling down, not always but usually. Someday, if we ever do go deeper into finding out about each other’s personal lives, you’ll understand my moods a little better. i do want to share a little more with you today though.
I am in a kind of weird situation in life because the people who are close to me expect me to be strong all the time. I end up being the person they come to when they need to be encouraged and listened to. When I am weak, and go to them, they are not prepared for it. Not everyone is cut out to help bear the burdens of friends and loved ones in their lives who they expect to always be strong. There is literally not anyone right now that I can meltdown to.
I’m probably about 90% always having a good day because if i look at life as being about serving God then it is no longer about me. It is totally about God and others. And most of the time that is how I live and think. But there is the other 10% of the time that i am not having a good day during which I’m uncertain, scared, let down, lonely or confused for some reason.
As a Christian, I want to handle situations in life the right way. And I try to make good decisions. Most of the time, I am brimming over with a sense of the presence of God. In times like I described above, God seems distant. I think sometimes He backs off a little to help us learn and grow. When i was feeling bad last night, I came upon this passage in 1 Peter:
1 Peter 4:12-13 MSG “Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.”
So there is a refining process that helps us become stronger and better equipped to fulfill His purpose in us.
Anyway, I’ll stop for now. I know that you told me it was okay to talk to you if i needed an ear. So I guess I’ve done that a little. I’m pretty strong and for the most part can take care of myself. Sometimes it’s better to have someone to talk to.
There is so much to say that I can’t say because I don’t want to create a situation of becoming attached or dependent in some way that crosses a line that shouldn’t be crossed in our friendship. If I’ve said too much, just tell me.
Hope your day today is good and totally blessed. If your daughter is talking your ears off then that is good…isn’t it?
your friendship means a lot to me penpal. I appreciate you very much.
Larry I just want to let you that you bearing your heart to me makes me feel much closer to you and self assured that you are huuman:) not meaning that I am happy in any way that you struggle! It just makes me feel more comfortable sharing with you. I was beginning to think you were perfect lol I have no problem with you saying as much as you feel the need to about yourself. To be completely honest, I believe we already have an attachment even if its just kindred spirits. I praise Our Heavenly Father for allowing us to be able comfort and encourage each other whether its penpals or eventually something more I do not regret our friendship at all. I feel very blessed to be able to communicate with someone that is going thru some of the same spiritual and emotional battles that I am experiencing.
Yes it is good for Faith(my daughter) to want to talk lol I know there are lots of Moms who would love to hear their daughters chatter!! I miss my son (Randy) he stays with a friend most of the time and I don’t get time with him like I used to. Anyways, will check on you in a bit. Have a blessed evening my friend, Carol:)
Thanks. I needed to hear you say everything you said. I ain’t perfect and am definitely human. Anytime you consider thinking any other way but human about me, remember that I am an old hippie and have been everywhere and done everything. I don’t think it’s a bad thing either. I feel that God uses us best when we try to honestly be ourselves and not put on.
There is something about talking to you that I don’t think I’ve experienced before. This sounds weird, but it’s like I don’t want to hurt you by saying or doing anything, and I need for you to know (through what I say) that I respect you and am interested in the things you are doing. And I am trying my best to be totally honest. It sounds weird but you make me want to do better. It’s not that I do wrong or bad things, it’s just that I usually don’t think about it, but with anything concerning you I do. I know that’s bizarre…lol
It goes back to what I said a few days ago about not playing mind or word games. I have a desire to connect on a deeper level when you and I talk, and I do not want to play any games or give a false impression. Seems like men and women, especially online, are generally more chatty and casual and maybe flirty. I’ve done that a little bit. And I’m not even saying it’s bad.
When I rededicated my life to the Lord, I began trying to examine myself and my motives more closely. You’ve heard me say it before, but to me being a believer, and following the Way, is not about always being good or following the rules. I think it is about getting to know God and wanting to return his love. It’s okay for us to be just who we are, flaws and all, as long as we have our eyes on Him and our hearts set on following Him.
That’s where I want to be in my life, personal and otherwise. The blood of Jesus washed over me and made me clean. I feel that, don’t you? I know you do! I don’t ever want that to change. I don’t ever want to go back to the place where, even if things look good on the outside, I am harboring darkness in my spirit. It’s such a precious gift, for our sins to be washed away by His blood. I do wrong things every day, and am not perfect. But I’m trying to let the Holy Spirit lead my life. I have been a carnal and sinful person in the past. But I am serious as I can be when I say that when I got saved, I felt the difference in my spirit. I’m born again! I feel clean. I’m not the same person as far as motives and desires.
That’s my pledge to you. Either as a friend or as more than friend, if God wills it, I want to be the kind of person with you that God wants me to be. I probably won’t do a perfect job, but I’m going to try my best. And if i mess up, I’ll try to swallow my pride and start again doing right. And hopefully, you’ll forgive me if I mess up. God bless you. You friend from the heart. Larry
Evening Larry, it was nice getting your message it is weird the way we talk to each other sometimes it feels like I have known you forever! I know what you mean about wanting to do better, when I talk with you I catch myself double checking my spelling and grammar and still make mistakes lol guess you bring out the best in me:) I am happy that we are able to talk and I think I am becoming more comfortable.
I am maybe a younger hippie lol. (tells me more about her life and that she doesn’t want to scare me off) Your friend Carol:)
Hi Carol,
Thanks for telling me more about your life. When I get a chance I want to tell you a little more too. There’s no way that you are going to scare me off, especially by telling about what all you’ve gone through in your life. When I read your story, what I saw was that you did your best and then did what you had to do for you and the kids. And it is really hard sometimes, when things happen in life, to understand what the right thing to do is as a child of God. When I tell you more about me, you’ll learn about how I struggle even today to find God in some of my circumstances. And it seems to me as if the older I get, the harder life gets. But then at the same time I’m thinking that, all of a sudden, the joy and peace of God flood my soul and I think exactly the opposite, how wonderful life is at any age in the presence of the true God.
I want to tell you again that I think you are awesome and beautiful in every way. I love the way your faith and belief is so strong and well-grounded, and I love talking to you because you don’t separate your life with God from anything. There’s nothing I know about you that would make me think anything except that you have a kind and loving heart. And I believe with all my heart that God is going to make the things you do successful; that He is going to use what you do for His glory.
I don’t want you to ever feel nervous or apprehensive about you and I and our friendship. Whatever happens between us is okay. I want you to be okay, and I want things between you and I to make you happy and be a blessing or help in some way. There is no hurry about anything, I’m not going anywhere unless you tell me to. I think God will let us know what He wants us to do, and He will guide our steps.
I’ve got to go for now. It is late. I’ll write when I can sometime tomorrow.
I think the world of you too. Praying for you constantly. Sweet dreams younger hippie.
October 10, 2013
Good Morning My Friend! Hope you had a peaceful night of rest:) I enjoyed reading your message this morning. I always try and wait for you to write before I fall asleep but I never seem to make it lol the good thing is you are the last thing on mind when I fall asleep:) and the first thing when I wake up! Because I am anxious to see what you reply!! So it works out that you are first in my prayers:) always know someone is starting their day with you being lifted up to Our Heavenly Father.
I do think the world of you and Sherry both! I feel so blessed that you both allow me to be a part of your lives even in this small way. And I appreciate all of the prayers you both send up when it concerns every part of my life. I believe with every part of my being that you two are Godly people that look to him first with all situations of your life. It blesses my heart most to know that you enjoy the intimate relationship with our Jesus! You not only go to him with a need but you enjoy sitting in his presence and sharing all of your day with the Master, the highs and lows.
I am glad Sherry thinks of me as a friend:) I respect her for being a leader and a successful Lady in the business world. But more than that I admire her placing God first with her personal and business life.
Thank you for reminding me this business can be such a dog-eat-dog place. I am very naive about many things and I do tend to think everyone is good and in it to help you. I pray God shelters me from the manipulation and getting ahead mantality some get caught up in. I pray daily I will honor God with all things and remember its not about me its about others! I am very aware that satan dangles sparkly pretties in front of us to get our eyes off Jesus. May I always see the trap and know that God makes a way out! And take it!!!
Have to get moving my old hippie lol have a very busy schedule today 🙂 have a blessed and favored day my sweet friend, young hippie:)
Hi Carol. Was glad to hear from you. I’ll write again later when I get caught up here at work. But I wanted you to know that I’m praying for you today. You are in my thoughts and prayers always…Larry
Talk soon my hippie friend lol
Hey young hippie. I think I’m back. Am going to start something to you now while i’m at lunch. If things work out, I’ll write you a whole letter without having to stop and start again.
I’m the same way. I really look forward to hearing from you and keep looking at my inbox to see if I have a message from you or if you have seen my message yet. And when I read what you write, your words, and just the good feeling itself from us talking lingers in my mind and heart. So yes, I’m thinking about you when I wake up and when I go to sleep too.
I am fixing to send you several messages and tell you more about me. I don’t know if it will be good or bad for us, but I want to tell you these stories. It is kind long. i apologize for that.
I hope you’ve had a good day. I want to hear about it when you have time.
Your friend always…Larry
Ok. I’m going to take a chance on scaring you off and tell you a little bit more about my experience with relationships. (personal stuff deleted).
To be continued penpal. I hope I haven’t ran you off.
Hey…I’m back at home. I almost backed out of finishing this. But on second thought, we’ll go on (more personal info deleted).
Well, my hands are tired from typing sweet Carol. It didn’t end there, and there is more to tell about my journey to reconcile my actions with God.
I’m glad you know more. I’ll understand if it’s too much for you and you need to pull away. No matter what I’ll still think you are the best, that you are kind and beautiful. Hope you are having a great girl’s night out. God bless you. Your admirer always, no matter what…Larry
October 11, 2013
Dear my old Hippie! I am not scared at all. I respect you more for sharing your heart with me. I have tried writing this 3 times and keep dozing off! I will write you tomorrow when I have a bit more sense. Hope you have sweet dreams my friend, Carol
Hi Carol…good morning! I’m glad I didn’t scare you off. God bless and keep you today! Larry.
Good morning my sweet sweet hippie!! I am so sorry I couldn’t leave you a decent message last night. I tried from about 1:30 until 3am and I kept falling asleep and deleting what I was writing lol I knew you would understand when you noticed why and the time! I feel your pain when you are walking thru those nightmares and I pray that God restores the love that you had so freely given to people that did not return or even acknowledge the support, intelligence or the loving heart that you obviously have!! All I can say God has taken each experience and given you wisdom and an awesome testimony to use for his great glory! You will be rewarded my friend because God did see your heart every moment of the way. I don’t like bringing up the past relationships but since we are on the subject and we are cleansing our souls of the past(in a way) I will share…
I know everyone has a past we can’t judge anyone from their past choices. But, I did cringe a little when I seen some of the similarities. Don’t think ‘i have run her off’ because you haven’t I just want to stay on the ‘real’ level and lay it out there.
Hey…finally got out of the meeting and then went and grabbed something at Subway to bring back to my office. I may split this into separate messages, so that if I get sidetracked here at work i won’t accidentally lose what I’ve written so far.
It’s interesting that there a parallels in what you and I have gone through, from different and the same point of views. I guess we need to acknowledge God right here and give Him credit. He knows what He’s doing when he puts people together.
Usually, when I writing a reply to you, I would go from the top of your message down and answer in that order. Today I’m going from the middle and then the bottom and whatever. There are things to say that are on my mind, and I’m afraid I’ll leave them out.
Some of this may cross a line that shouldn’t be crossed, but I feel a need to share my feelings with you. I care about you and would rather scare you off by being honest than misrepresent something that would hurt you or cause a problem later on.
I’ve always thought that when two people love each other, and enter into a relationship, that they starting building a new life together that belongs to just them. I’m not saying anyone abandons their old life. I’m saying that the two people take an interest in and take part in each others lives. Of course we put God first. After that, it gets a little confusing to establish priorities when you are older and enter into a relationship where the two people have already established lives. But my opinion is that after God you put your spouse either at the top or close as you can.
I believe what the bible says about two people marrying and becoming one flesh. I don’t pretend to understand how that changes or translates when someone is divorced and enters into a new relationship. But I do know that the new testament talks about how it is okay under certain circumstances for people to remarry.
So I think that if a relationship is truly in God’s will, the two will naturally put each other first, before their self.
The other thing I think, if a relationship is truly in God’s will, is that the two people will allow each other to be free. God has given us freedom in Christ, and as Christ’s representatives we would never want to do anything to take away another persons freedom, including freedom of choice.
I am your friend because I like you and want to spend time with you. I want you to be my friend because you like me and enjoy our time together. I don’t want you to be friendly with me against your will or better judgement.
If two people love each other, or even just like each other, they want the best for each other. And when the other person in their life is happy and satisfied, it makes them happy and satisfied.
That’s all I’ve ever dreamed of, as far as having love in my life, being with someone who I could share life with equally, without me or the other person having to lose their personal identity and freedom.
For my part though, being free doesn’t mean being going my own way and doing anything I want to, anytime. What I mean by freedom is the freedom to be with that other person by choice. And to continue being who I uniquely am inside.
am going to send this. and start a new message. thanks for the prayers.
I wish that I could know true love in my life. But it’s okay if that isn’t in God’s plan for me. I don’t want want to repeat the same mistakes and be moved by my own selfish desires. I don’t know what is right, but I want to be right with God. I love Him.
I don’t want to mess anyone else’s life up or lead them out of God’s will.
I don’t want to be the master of anyone’s life, but i long to be a partner.
Maybe with you and I sharing more about our lives with each other, it will help you understand when I say that I’m scared. I’m not sure if I know how to be a Godly friend or more than a friend. I got knocked off my high-horse by my own mistake of not confirming God’s true voice. I am confused about whether or not my choices will be right.
With or without a partner, I’m going to keep on striving to live for God.
After hearing all of this, you may decide I’m too much of a risk for you, and I wouldn’t blame you.
I’m glad you felt comfortable enough with me to share your “ugly truth.”
It may be tonight after the service before I can write again, but if you write me I will see it.
I’ve grown close to you through our talking and sharing. Thank you for letting me get to know you.
Love you through Christ’s eyes too young hippie. Write when you can and tell me your thoughts and about your day.
Guess you can tell I am hanging on to your every word lol I have been lazy today I guess it was because my late night but when I read what all you had written last night I wanted so badly to respond last night but I guess God had different plans. I don’t know what God has planned for me either, relationship wise, however I do know I will trust him with all of it and if he blesses me with a companion and to be so favored to have true love I will cherish it! I am as you said desiring a love where we both can be completely ourselves and grow with God as the center of both of us. Sometimes I feel that is a fantasy but that is the only relationship I will step in to. Having peace of mind and feeling at one with someone would be awesome but yes I wonder if its even possible?
I promise I won’t get ‘spooked’ about whatever you choose to tell me and I will let you know if you get to close for comfort. Honestly, I feel we have crossed the line of being cordial acquaintance to becoming close friends or whatever you want to call what we are now. But I don’t think I have ever told just one person all of what I told you today. Will go for now have a great evening my old hippie:)
I’m with you about that. Is it only a fantasy to think that kind of relationship exists? I don’t think it’s wrong to desire that or to look for it. I think that is what God intended love between and a man and woman to be like.
Like you said: “desiring a love where we both can be completely ourselves and grow with God as the center of both of us.”
I believe what you said is God’s will for men and women who He puts together.
But I think that men and women who are seeking relationships and dating and courting are mostly not honest with each other. I think we play roles and put on a show to impress when we are at that stage of developing a relationship.
If I want you to know the real me, then I need to be real. And the other way around. As we are truthful about who we are, it should become increasingly clear one way or the other if a relationship is meant be. Jesus is the Truth. I believe that in this world telling the truth is a way of representing Him. Sometimes people tell so many falsehoods or misrepresent themselves so much that they don’t even know for sure who they really are.
Someday, if God brings that person into my life, I will put my whole heart into honoring and respecting her by putting God first and being kind, loving and honest and giving.
Oh well. Got to go sweet friend and young hippie. Have a great evening. Talk to you later.
Have a blessed evening yourself my sweet hippie man:)
Hi Carol, Just now getting home from the service. On the way home I kept thinking “I just can’t wait to get back so I can write to my penpal.”
It makes my heart happy to be able to look forward to coming home so I talk to you again. I so look forward to it. And it is a blessing to share things about Jesus with you.
I hope you’ve had a wonderful night. Look forward to hearing from you. your friend always…Larry
October 12, 2013
I’m getting sleepy penpal. Wanted to say goodnight before I pass out. Praying for you and thanking God for you. Have a blessed day tomorrow.
Hello my Hippie, I am so sorry I passed out on you last night! Sometimes I think you are like a lullaby lol you just relax me I guess and I fall right to sleep. You are a good friend and I do praise God for you always!! I pray you have a very blessed and relaxing day:)
I just read…Everything in your life you could possibly want is right in front of you so stop looking in your past…. wow, that speaks volumes! Maybe we cleansed ourselves of the past these last few days. I like that thought:)
Psalm 139 is my bible reading…to know God as David did. He searched for God’s heart that is the reason God was after his! Billy Graham wrote in ‘Unto the Hills’…
Unless God is revealed to us through personal experience, we can never really know God. Most of us know about God, but that is quite different from really knowing God.
Is it not logical to believe that the only One who can re-create us is the One who created us in the first place?
Our spiritual problems can only be solved by the God who created us originally. He created us in His own image and likeness; today by the grace of his Son, He can re-create us in the likeness of His resurrection. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are re-created and become partakers of His life.
Just wanted to share what has been placed on my heart. Have a blessed afternoon my precious Hippie Friend:) your penpal, Carol
Good afternoon…I started to say good morning but see that it is almost noon. I was probably the one who passed out on you. when I got home, I turned on the computer and the TV. But I kept falling asleep, so I went and sat on the bed while we talked. Finally I just gave up on staying awake.
This morning, my dog woke me up at 8. I got up and had cereal and coffee but then fell asleep in the chair til 10:30. So I got dressed and headed to the office for a little while and that’s where I am now.
Yes! “Everything in your life you could possibly want is right in front of you so stop looking in your past” does speak volumes.
When I think about you, young hippie, I rejoice because you are moving ahead into a bright future where you don’t have to be limited by the past or anything that would hold you back.
Saw this verse last night and thought it applied to you and me.
1 Corinthians 1:7-9 MSG
“Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.”
Paul says to them. “All God’s gifts are right in front of you.”
It’s amazing because i made a note of this last night and didn’t see your quote “Everything in your life you could possibly want is right in front of you so stop looking in your past” until this morning.
And they both say the same thing! God is talking to you and me Carol. And He is using us to confirm to each other that it is really His voice!
I’m glad that we were able to share that part of our lives with each other.
I think that what I’ve told you about me so far is true and I’ve tried to tell you things that might have a bearing on your opinion of me.
As much as being cleansed from the past, I also am trying to be up front about anything going on now.
And we are living proof as we seek God to be revealed to us through our personal experience. That’s one of the things I love about knowing you, I am getting to experience your journey to really know Him as we share things and get to know each other. And I hope that I do the same for you.
Thanks for sharing what is on your heart penpal. Blessings from your Old Hippie.
I am still sitting on my front porch! I didn’t get up until about 10:30! My dog got me up! She is my bestfriend when it comes to listening wiping my tears and consoling me! I tell you the truth; ‘scared’ is becoming a very good adjective for us lol it seems our lives are lining up with a special walk with our heavenly Father and I like that:) but I am NOT going to jump into any fire and dance just yet…
We just got to keep letting God be first. Everything will fall into place from there and whatever needs to happen will happen.
As far as you and I, there’s still no pressure. I love every minute of our talking, and I’ll have to admit that I miss hearing from you when I don’t. But I don’t have any expectations. Whatever point we get to in our journey as friends, you are free to do what is best for you. I’m not worried about me, but you are young yet and have a lot to accomplish and a wonderful life to work toward experiencing in its fullness. That’s what I want for you, and I won’t ever try to hold on to you in a way that will hold you back. Whatever happens with us, it will be a joy for me to see you be happy and free, being all that God has called you to be.
I want the same things for your life my friend. I never want to hold you back or feel pressured to talk with me. If there comes a time you don’t answer back I will understand but honestly i would be a little crushed. But I am not young but thank you for the compliment! I have a very old soul, and connect with any age so I guess its odd when you refer to me like that. I don’t look at an age I listen to the person that comes out of what is said and done. I forget what your age is as you should forget mine!
I’m sorry and didn’t mean to if I offended you by saying you were young. I don’t think age matters at all or has much, if anything to do with somethings level of maturity, closeness to God or ability. I really wasn’t trying to make a compliment either.
I guess I was just doing a bad job of saying that I’ve gotten over the hump in my life as far as finding and having a career and I’ve almost got enough years in to think of retiring.
I may be seeing things wrong, but I see you just at the beginning of some wonderful opportunities that God has placed in front of you so that you can realize your dreams and become firmly grounded and stable and secure. Age aside, I would never get in the way of you going all the way in your plans for your life. I support you in whatever you do and would rather see you be completely fulfilled without me than to hold you back for any selfish reasons I might have.
In our friendship, you are more important to me than I am to me.
You did not offend me at all! I’m sorry I sounded defensive. And you my friend, I hope, will be a part of whatever success I may have because of your inspiration and encouragement!! On my way to the library now will try and message u then
I still feel bad making you think you offended me. I didn’t feel that at all, really just wanted you to understand that I am totally comfortable with your age and I feel that we are the same when it comes to that. As for retiring that is wonderful!! It just shows that you have had your head together much longer than I have. Be blessed my Ole Hippie, your young hippie;D
Hey wanted to go ahead and say everything is ok. I don’t feel weird or bad and don’t want you to. Matter of fact, I feel good and so blessed because of you young hippie. Your old hippie always
Good! I feel better knowing you feel ok;) I am being run out of the library now they are closing in 5 minutes. So I will leave you alone for awhile. Talk soon my penpal, Hippie
Hey…glad you checked in. It’s good to have you in my life penpal. Your old Hippie.
I had a good visit with my sister today. I hadn’t seen her since we had been to Gulf Shores together last month. So we had plenty to talk about. She was glad that we are becoming such good friends. She was the one there for me when both my relationships ended and she knows how much I need someone right now but she said she knew I was scared<—that word again…but it was good for us to just take it slow. I told her that was no problem that both of us agree that its best for us to wait on God.
Hey Young Hippie. If we ever get to meet and hang out, you will find out that I am not a “religious” person at all. But, like you, I am a true believer. With all my heart, I believe. Well, I’m glad you told your sister that you and I are talking. I told my assistant at work. She was glad because they worry about me. But I haven’t talked to anyone else about you except for Sherry and I told my brother today that we were talking.
My sisters heard about you when we were at the beach:) one of my sisters said that you are melting my heart!
Well…you do melt my heart. I wanted to pray this for you tonight in Jesus name: that God will continue to let his light shine from you in everything you do. I pray that he will give you everything you need to be what He wants you to be. I pray that you have the fullness of that power to be a witness that Jesus promised.
Acts 1:8. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
And I pray that He will give love and joy and peace and happiness and material comfort. Amen
Thank you for the beautiful prayer! I am so blessed to melt for such a spirit-filled man(and don’t deny it) I will say good night sweet friend, your young hippie:)
Goodnight young hippie! Sweet dreams.
October 13, 2013
Good morning penpal! Thought I’d write and wish you a blessed and happy day! youre in my thoughts and prayers. Your old hippie.
Praise be to God on this beautiful Sunday Morning!! I thought I would be first to say good morning guess we both had the same thought!! Bless you my sweet Hippie! Have a wonderful day in the Lord:)
Hello again Old Hippie. I just had my hardest encounter with the past yet (details deleted here). My heart has been broken and I can’t quit sobbing.
Dear penpal, I love you as my sister in Christ and as a friend. So right off, don’t ever worry about me not being here to listen and pray and be there for you in anyway. I am your old hippie, and I love you in those ways I said above.
I want you to know that I support you and will stick with you. It’s hard to make the right decisions about life sometimes, but just ask God and do your best to hear His voice. If you do make a choice and mess up, then you know God loves you just the same. And so will I and the other people in your life who have gotten to know your beautiful heart. So whatever happens, you are okay, because God’s got your back so do we.
God says to allow you to console me that we are meant to bear each others burdens. And I am here for you too.
I know that you must be hurting bad. And I don’t know what to do from a distance. But in your mind and heart, let me hold you. And don’t ever forget that Jesus is really holding you in His arms. He’s there right now, and He feels what you feel and wants to comfort you and heal your broken heart. And He can. He is able.
Thank you, I feel your compassion and I claim yours and Jesus’s comfort. I know in my heart and every fiber of my being that God says move on but it’s hard to do.
It is really tough. And that’s why I want to say to you again that there is no pressure from me. With all my heart I want you to be happy and fulfilled.
I want you to be totally happy too.
It’s tragic when other people are hurt in the aftermath of our bad choices
Yes yes it is
I’m glad that we can share and be truthful. I want to promise you that again. To the best of my ability I will tell you the absolute truth, no lies, half truths or omissions
Yes I am praying that I will always be completely honest with you no matter how mad or disappointed you might be. God allow me to always speak my whole heart with Larry and nothing more or less in Jesus Name Amen
We just try our best and let God do the rest. We may mess up with each other once in a while. But if we keep letting God lead us and direct us as friends, then anything that is ever wrong won’t last long. His love will heal it.
I am praying and determined also, with you, to not let me pride get in the way. I want to be willing to say I’m wrong and I’m sorry if I need to
You do know that is my motto: do your best and God will do the rest! U r 2 Cool:)
My motto too! And it’s true!
I have a bad habit of saying sorry whether it is my fault or not. I think I am learning to apologize for the action and not just to make someone feel better. I will do my best to step up and say I am truely sorry and help me to do better now before its too late.
Another scare for you!! Lol
Hey I feel so blessed that God is using us to help each other understand and work things out that need to be worked on
I am blessed! I have never had a friend that seems to understand so much about me!! And I have had many wonderful friends!
I just pray we are not subconsciously trying to mesh with each other because we have been so lonely in our relationships…if you know what I mean? But I feel God is confirming like you said we are good for each other at this point in our lives:)
Well, I know what you mean. It could be that we are. I respect your opinion about whether or not we are doing that. I don’t know if I even know myself right now in things pertaining to love or friendship with the opposite sex. You may be better at discerning that I. I am good at discerning in others but not in myself. What you need to know is that as a friend or otherwise, I will never put a hook in your heart and try to hold you against your will or better judgment.
Amen! I pledge that to you my friend I believe God gave us freewill for a reason. And no I am no better at discerning that than you are. I guess that is why I feel we need to be a safe distance away for now. Until God decides for us
We have something special between us already that seems like a God thing to me. If it goes no further, then it still is awesome. If God intends there to be more, I wouldn’t want to do it any other way than His way.
If and when God brings the right man into your life someday, that man is going to be truly blessed
I totally agree about the Lady that steals your heart! I love you my Ole my Hippie Friend thru Jesus Eyes:) I have to go to visit my sister even though I could talk with you all evening long! Will check in as soon as I get home. Be Blessed and stay sweet your friend young hippie:)
It’s been good, and a God thing, for us to have this distance between us. That has let me know something about your heart. I believe you are like those holy women of old:
1 Peter 3: 4-6 MSG
Cultivate inner beauty, the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in. The holy women of old were beautiful before God that way, and were good, loyal wives to their husbands. Sarah, for instance, taking care of Abraham, would address him as “my dear husband.” You’ll be true daughters of Sarah if you do the same, unanxious and unintimidated.
If things never go any farther, I am so blessed to know a truly godly woman
have a good visit with your sister. love you in Christ young hippie.
You are such a blessing! And I wish I could live up to those kind words!! You bless my heart in so many ways! I have to go now!!! Love you my friend and thank you so much for the shoulder. You were the first one I thought of and I stopped and said no God I don’t this relationship to be a crutch and that is when he reminded me about sharing burdens. Even Jesus had disciples and his dear friend Lazarus…. I am gone…peace out 😃
peace out dear friend
Going to try to write a little. Hope you’re okay and having a good visit with your sister (details deleted).
I am still at my sister’s but wanted you to know I am here and reading
thanks. glad to know you are there. you don’t have to respond now or at all. Already getting sleepy. Hope you had and good evening and are okay. Been reading James in the message bible tonight:
(16) So, my very dear friends, dont get thrown off course. (17) Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing twofaced, nothing fickle. (18) He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all his creatures.
James 1:16-18 (MSG)
you are in my thoughts and prayers sweet friend. Angels are watching over you. Your old hippie always
October 14, 2013
Hi My Sweet Hippie, I finally made it home! Diane lives in Tennessee so it takes about 45 minutes to drive. Sorry I didn’t catch before you went to sleep. But yes I had a good time and I am ok. A big part is because of your kind way of handling a basket case lol it really meant so much to me how you lined up God’s Word with what you had to say. That shows what a person is made of by the way they handle a hysterical woman and to you my friend I give flowers! Thank you for caring and I did read about what you sent me about your ex and I have thoughts about her but I don’t think it would line up with the bible very well. I am becoming very protective of you already. I guess its because you have taken care of me so well. I am going to try and lay down but if I don’t sleep I may write again:) I pray the angels rocked you to sleep my Ole Hippie! Good Night, your Young Hippie
© 2022 by Larry and Carol Smith
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you (Psalm143:8 NIV).
We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps (Proverbs 16:9 NLT).
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8 NIV).
In case you missed part one, here is the link:
Foot Prints On The Trail 