Let Them Know

A new year has begun and, like a lot of people, I made a few resolutions. Some will stick and some will last a few days, if that. Two of my main resolutions were to become more comfortable speaking in front of people and sharing my thoughts and the other is to let those who have touched my heart know that they have done so.

Case in point: My friend Nathan (aka "Joe" in a previous post).

Nathan has become my chatting buddy when I'm logged into my messenger. We talk about a lot of different topics and we usually end with an online prayer. He told me about some of the rough times he is going through with his family and work. He also keeps me posted on his bowling scores and lots of other great information. He's my cheering section, my prayer buddy and my friend. He is very special.

He loves coming to our church but occasionally he has to work on Sundays and isn't able to attend. I try to make a point to stop by the store on my way home because I know he'll want to touch base on what we talked about that day. Last Sunday, we did a very touching affirmation of baptism ceremony for everyone in attendance. All were welcomed to the font for a blessing as a reminder that we are all children of God. We all approached the baptismal font and were blessed and then we would turn and bless the person behind us, marking the sign of the cross on the person's forehead. I was deeply moved by this but I was also very disappointed for Nathan because he wasn't able to be there for it.

On my way home, I stopped in to Walmart and there to greet me, of course, was Nathan! The first words out of his mouth were "What did we learn in church today?" So I told him about the worship service and the affirmation of our baptism. And standing right there in the front of Walmart, I marked the cross on his forehead and repeated the words we had said earlier at the service. He then did the same for me. I smiled, he smiled. We hugged again and I was on my way. We blessed each other again on my way out! It is so refreshing to be with someone like Nathan. Someone who just yearns to learn more and someone who can be so full of joy and smiles when the worlds seems to be knocking him down.

On one recent evening we were chatting so I let him know that he has really touched my heart and soul and I just thought he should know. I told him about the blog I had written about him (which I originally intended as 'just a story') and he was so surprised. I sent him the link so he could read it. He just loved it! I hope to share my story of Nathan, and how he's touched my heart, with the church someday.

If someone has touched your heart or changed your world in a special way, let them know! It doesn't have to be a big deal. No gifts or fancy wrapping necessary. Tell them what's in your heart and let them know they've made a difference.