What Saying Goodbye Taught Me
Last weekend, my family and I drove 45 minutes to my sister’s house to say our goodbyes. She and her three kids moved to Minnesota this week. She found a better paying job.
During this visit, I was aware of our time being our last one. My sister has lived in her house for almost four years and this visit was different. This time we wandered the open space just beyond her backyard.
My son and my nephew jumped the fence first. Our two dogs were lifted over too. Within five minutes, my husband and my younger niece followed. Soon after, my daughter and my other niece left for their adventure. As my sister and I watched the girls walk through the tall grasses, we decided to join them. I took pictures the whole way there and back, capturing the scenes and eventually our families. Later that night, we ate at Panda Express and enjoyed frozen custard from Good Times. The whole experience was memorable. Extra sweet.
That is until we said our goodbyes. Not saying a word to anyone, I cried on the drive home. I felt such a loss. Regret filled my heart. Why didn’t we enjoy the outdoors together before? Why didn’t I make more of an effort to connect with my sister? Why didn’t I invite them over more or have the kids spend the night with their cousins?
Now it is too late. I’m not sure when I will see them again. My nieces and nephew will be back to see their dad, I’m sure.. My sister, I’m not sure. I rarely get to Minnesota, even though I have relatives there. Sad reality when I have family in a few states.
I feel like I missed my opportunity. I missed my chance to love.
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10 (NIV)
How we spend our time matters. What we do or don’t do today affects our tomorrows. I want to live a life of no regrets. Don’t you?
Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to the opportunities set before me each day. Take my regrets and transform them. Show me when I am being selfish or lazy. Help me live a life of love, not just good intentions. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Beautifully, and very well said my friend.
well, if that isn’t incredible! My ears are all perked up because that is precisely what’s been on my heart. In fact, the post I wrote last night that is scheduled to go up in a few hours is about opportunities, too. Col 4:5 pairs very nicely with the verse you posted here. awesome!
Beautiful reminder. I am so glad that I went ahead and made my summer plans with my family instead of giving in to the idea that things are too busy for us to get away. Thanks for sharing.
My heart felt this post, I have all my family in another state. Beautiful!!
I’ve lived this story more times then I’ve liked. We are a moving family, and no matter where we land, our hearts grow tender for a few families we eventually leave behind. However, the pain in letting go means that I have loved and risked and chosen to reach beyond the safety of 4 walls. So for as long as this life keeps me, I’ll keep on investing in people. I am the richer for having them all in my life. May God bless your sister and you in this season as you flesh out what all of this means in terms of your now…in hopes for your forever.
Minnesota’s just a place. Your heart? That’s where love lives.
peace~elaine
Oh Tiffany,
Wow, How we spend our time matters. What we do or don’t do today effects our tomorrows…. Amen
I am praying this prayer along with you. Thank youf or this wonderful devotion. Love and hugs, Lynn
Thanks so much for sharing, I too desire to live a life of love without regrets, but that is something we can only do through the power of Christ. My desire is for more of Him in my life, more of His Spirit, and less of me and my flesh…
Thank you Tiffany – something we all need to consider. You have a way of making it real!
What a beautifully poignant reminder Tiffany.
I love this. Losing my mom taught me living in today – in the present moment. Everyday after that has not been the same.
I love your heart! I hunger to link with more people who are just SOLD OUT to Jesus!
Beautiful. This really convicted me.
I just read this post today (Friday the 13th – and no, I’m not superstitious at all! I trust our Sovereign God to see me through each and every day.). It amazes me how the Lord has us walking the same path yet again! I’ve written a similar post this week using Gal. 6:10.
This was so well put and fits with the direction of your life right now – intentional living.
We have this moment today. Let’s make the most of it.
Thanks for this beautiful post.
Amen to that Tiffany. I know that I have missed many opportunities…Oh Lord help me to recognize them now….
Thank you for sharing your broken heart with us.