I arrived to work, met with the new assistant manager, and worked on my projects, per usual. As my day progressed, a unique lady in her mid 40's came in to the store, (when I say "unique", I mean very extreme hair, bright colored attire, long acrylics on hands and feet)..... she was interesting and automatically caught anyone's eye. I greeted her, asked if she was looking for anything specific, and as I helped her, we just engaged in conversation right away. She started talking about her husband of 7 years, who she had known for 13 years prior - I then proceeded to tell her how admirable that was and how I couldn't wait for the day I met "the one" and got married. I felt so comfortable around her - there was a light about her that made her so inviting. This is where my "NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER" mantra came into play.... she may have seemed like someone I couldn't engage with, but little did I know she'd be the one lady to kick my motivation back into action.
As we started talking about my entire life story, she praised the fact that I am a 19 year old virgin. "You're like the third person I meet who is waiting.... you are a rarity" I quote her. She told me I have to tell the whole world and inspire other kids my age to follow in the footsteps of God. "Far too many times people don't wait; they just figure 'everyone else is doing it, why not me?' and they give-in so easily....you're special" she goes on saying and then adding in this lovely Bible Verse:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
I don't know how God puts His plans together, but they are always so intricate and just what I need. I told this lady about my dreams and how hurdles continue to get in my way, and she simply said, "Don't you dare give up. This isn't God telling you 'no', this is simply Him saying, 'It isn't time yet'." and oh my goodness, it is especially registered in my soul now more than ever. Like.... I could read a million uplifting quotes, or tell myself the same exact thing.... but nothing compares to this. Imagine, meeting a completely random stranger and having them tell you, "I believe in you" ?! It's so moving.
As we both wrapped up talking, she brought out her wallet, gave me her card (in case I ever needed to talk), and a dollar bill. I asked what for, and she replied with,
"Now, this isn't much...but it's your first dollar bill to get you started. You promise me you will save this inside of an envelope to help you towards your dreams?" I said, "Yes, I promise." and she ended with, "Good... I trust you. Do you work, and God will do His.." We hugged and that was the last I saw of her.
Words CANNOT describe the impact this stranger had on me. She was sent from God, I am sure of it. He talked to me through her and it was undoubtedly the most rejuvenating experience. How can I not be in awe of our Lord, our Father? He is everywhere......
My day progressively got better and better. I drove to St. Jude's Medical Center in Fullerton with two of my friends to visit Lauren (my best friend of 5 years), and her beautiful baby girl Layla Violet. Layla is precious, a true miracle. I am so blessed I get to be a part of her life!!!!
My day was nothing short of wonderful. Whenever I'm looking for happiness, I come out feeling empty.....happiness isn't external; it isn't found in pleasure but in the heart. Today reminded me that true happiness comes without effort, without seeking it -- It finds you.
