The Gardener

Thank you, for loving me enough to hurt me.

Sometimes I let myself believe that all is lost. 
Sometimes I feel that God has forgotten.
Sometimes I wonder what I did to deserve pain.
Sometimes I think that prayers don't really work. 
Sometimes I want nothing more than to give up.

But other times in the waking hours of the morning, when I feel only despair, anger, confusion, and sadness...
I remember. 

I remember that God is the creator of all things.
I remember that he is all knowing.
I remember that he is constant.
I remember that he will heal those who trust and love him.
I remember that there is a plan.
I remember that he is my father.
I remember that one day, through faith in his plan..
 I will be like him.

He is the gardener here.

Workers Compensation Fund

So, what does it mean to be "accident prone"?

Would you say it means someone who has more accidents during their lifetime than the average person?

Or does it refer to a person who CAN'T seem to avoid injury no matter what sort of activity they're participating in?

Well, whatever the extent of that phrase, I've concluded that, I, Tara Franklin am ACCIDENT PRONE.

I got this beautiful "shiner" at the Recycling Center.

Word to the wise: Never, EVER strip copper wire without safety glasses on. 

Duh.

The Recycling Center, again....

More words to the wise: Don't use pipe wrenches as hammers. 

You'll probably break your finger.

(My new nickname at work is Workers Compensation Fund.)

And to top it off last night, I got knocked clean out in an intense game of "water polo" basket ball. Took an elbow to the head and pretty much don't remember any of it.

At this rate I should start planning my funeral and keep the ambulance on speed dial...

All in a weeks work.

The Lightning Storm

The sky was dark. 
The clouds lit up with flashes of electrifying light.
It was quiet. It was peaceful. The thunder was distant and soothing.
I often think back on that night and I can't help but marvel at the nonexistence of coincidences.
There have been times in my life when I literally feel the presence of a higher power so close, so real, that it consumes me.
That was one of those times. 
I knew God loved me.
I knew God loved you. 
He loves us. 
I know it, because you told me so.
And when you told me so, it was as if HE told me so.
You are not just you. You were, and continue to be an answer, an instrument in the hand of God.
He is proud of you.
Your life has not been perfect, or easy. 
Yes, you still have a long way to go.
And you will make it. You'll see.
Because of your experience you have seen miracles; You have become a miracle yourself.
You have changed me.
When I leave this place, I will teach others what you have taught me.
If you ever wonder 'have I done any good in the world today?'
The answer is YES. 
Absolutely.

The Girl Who Knows

Shelby.

Thank you.

Your smile. Your laugh. Your brightness. Your faith. Your understanding. Your artwork. Your compassion. Your passion. Your determination. Your drive. Your testimony.

Thanks for being YOU Shelb.