God at the Grocery Store SOL #11/31

I am joining Two Writing Teachers for the Slice of Life Story Challenge.  I appreciate this space for writers to tell their stories and connect with each other.





As I turned the corner of the freezer aisle, I almost (literally) bumped into my old neighbor.  We hugged each other and got caught up on our lives.  

"So, how are things going for you?" she asked me.

I felt myself begin to well up, because I knew she would get it.  She and her husband have 2 adopted children through the foster care system.  They understand the ups and downs that come with caring for children who have suffered trauma.  They were life savers when the girls came to live with us the first time and they continued to support us when they came back the second time.

"I think the system is recommending reunification in May." I told her.  She looked at me with knowing eyes, because she understands that my heart is breaking and I am scared to death.   What if it's too soon and their mom isn't ready?  What if she relapses?  With all my heart I want their mom to beat her addiction and be able to parent her children.  But, I'm scared because I know that if she falls back, her children tumble down too and I can't stand the thought of them enduring any more trauma.

It felt so good to talk to someone who's taken this journey.  As we finished, I said to her, "I think this is a God moment.  I don't come to this grocery store anymore.  The other one is closer to my new house.  For some reason, I felt pulled to come here today. "

She laughed.  "I was just going to say the same thing to you.  We were running late and I almost didn't take the time to stop here this morning.  God brought us together today."

This time we both teared up as we hugged good-bye.  I promised her I would be in touch later this week.  As I turned my cart toward the produce aisle, I felt a sense of peace.  I know that Someone is looking down on us and will give us the strength and wisdom to do whatever we need to do to support the girls on their next steps.




Comments

  1. Wow - what a powerful mission you have taken on. Thank you for doing that. I'm so glad that you had this encounter today. Will keep you and your young ones in my thoughts and prayers.

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  2. WOW - I love God moments and by the sounds of it, it certainly was for both of you. I got chills as I read your slice. Thank you for sharing your story and your heart. I enjoyed reading.

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  3. Definitely a God moment. She was absolutely the person you needed to talk with today. Sending hugs your way as you continue to support the girls in the best way you can.

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  4. Yes, this was a moment made with intention and not by chance. I'm so glad it brought you peace on your journey.

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  5. Oh, goosebumps reading every word of this, Julie! I love God moments and this was definitely one of them. So thankful you had a friend to confide in, who truly understands your worries and struggles. What you are doing right now for your girls is what they need. Just continue giving them the love, strength and support. It is in God's hands. He will lead you through the coming months. Continue to trust and have faith! I'll be praying for you, for the girls, and their mother!

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  6. What a wonderful moment, a wonderful story, wonderful to stop by and read your slice Julie.
    Bonnie K

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  7. Thanks for preserving that special moment in a slice. Now the love of it spreads to all of us out here reading. I remember seeing you at NCTE and asking how it was going. Having people in your path to lean on and share with makes it all worthwhile.

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