I have just started re-reading (sort of) "The Purpose-Driven Life: What On Earth Am I Here For" by Rick Warren. We were supposed to read it for RA training back in 2004, but I think I only went through the first 5 mandatory chapters... I find it is hard for me to get into reading something I may ordinarily have enjoyed, just because I know I have to read it... Well, I am at a different place in my life now and I've decided to give the book another try... I am on my second day (there is one reading a day for 40 days) and the Point to Ponder was: "I am not an Accident." Part of the reading included this untitled poem that I want to share, written by Russell Kelfer:
"You are who you are for a reason.
You're part of an intricate plan.
You're a precious and perfect unique design,
Called God's special woman or man.
"You look like you look for a reason.
Our God made no mistake.
He knit you together within the womb,
You're just what he wanted to make.
"The parents you had were the ones he chose,
And no matter how you may feel,
They are custom-designed with God's plan in mind,
And they bear the Master's seal.
"No, that trauma you faced was not easy,
And God wept that it hurt you so;
But it was allowed to shape your heart
So that into his likeness you'd grow.
"You are who you are for a reason,
You've been formed by the Master's rod.
You are who you are, beloved,
Because there is a God!"
Anyone who knows about my broken and patched together family, or about the loss of my best friend, or about losing my aunt and uncle, will be able to see why this poem touched me, but I hope it will touch others too. It makes me think of the songs "Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns, and "Bless The Broken Road" by Selah or Rascal Flatts (take your pick) and just how even tough stuff can be worked into something good. I may sometimes think that I would be better off if I hadn't had to go through some pretty rough times, but if I hadn't gone through those rough times, I wouldn't be who I am today, or where I am today, so I have to remember to be thankful, even when I am sad or upset...
