There’s a song by Kathy Mattae, “Standing Knee Deep In A River.” She talks about friendships that we take for granted, and we let them slip on by.
As I grow older, I realize this is a hard truth that many of us either recognize early enough to rescue the few that may remain, or we acknowledge way too late that they’re already gone.
Friendships that are found to be easy and never have “a bump in the road,” a confrontation, or a season where questions arise if it’s really worth it to keep going, are truthfully, not those knee deep waters.
Knee deep water is when you can still jump around and splash, but one slip, and you’ll be under water fast.
Knee deep water is when you can still feel secure in your footing, but let the current get a little faster, and that footing will be tested and reevaluated.
Knee deep water is when you can choose to go a little deeper, explore a little more, or you can choose to step back in the shallow, safer waters and not take the risk.
Knee deep waters is when real friendships learn to survive.
Friendships that are made to last will be found more valuable and cherished when those waters rise.
What kind of friendships are you keeping today?
It might be one that will be a lifeline to your survival tomorrow…
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Too many people in this world bite, ridicule and wound those closest to them who care the most.
Too many people in this world viciously attack the ones who love them the most because they’re willing to speak truth.
Too many people don’t know who their friends are and walk away from the best.
Too many people embrace the toxic, the loud, and the angry, believing because “they’re family,” that’s what they’re suppose to do.
Too many people hold onto a bloodline that kicks them around and demands they be a doormat when they should say goodbye and not look back.
Too many people keep close those whom should be released and let go of those whom should be captivated.
Look around. Evaluate. Be honest.
Don’t stay out of obligation, fear or routine.
Don’t walk away out of rage, envy or apathy.
Open your eyes to see clearly and hear with precision.
Make wise choices, and make calculated decisions.
You can do this.
And the next generation is depending on you to do it right.
They are watching and waiting.
Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. Saul took him that day, and would not let him go home to his father’s house anymore. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.
Ok, so this meme is posted to be funny, and I hope you’re laughing.
But honestly, there’s a little bit of truth here, and realistically, on both sides.
We can’t go around “locking people out” of our lives every time we dislike what they say or do.
Yet, for our own well being, there may be times that we need to lock that door.
If you’re feeling quick to agree or disagree with me, I’ll urge you to pause.
Your feelings of justification or accusation may not be accurate once you hear my thoughts…
In this culture we are living, it seems everyone can be offended, and everyone is demanding tolerance and acceptance.
In this modern society, everyone screams to “let me be me,” and if “you don’t, you hate me!”
Candidly speaking, this is a dumb statement on both ends of the spectrum.
If you are in the camp of those who are quick to gain offense and demand acceptance, in actuality, you are forcing that of me, but yet, I’m not allowed to do the same of you (because then, I’d be intolerant).
If you are in the camp who states emphatically that my disagreement proves my hatred, then in reality, you have just pointed the finger to the very thing you are doing to me (because now you are “hating on” me).
Both responses are unfair and unreasonable.
Both reactions are illogical and quite biased.
If you are truly desiring relationship, these expectations are one sided and selfish, and they only bring toxins and codependency.
If you are truly looking for companionship, these pressures are pompous and even narcissistic, and they only bring death and destruction.
If you are truly seeking connection, then you’ve got to have some give and take.
If you are truly pursuing friendship, then you’ve got to become less demanding and a little more understanding.
And this is when the decision to open the door or close it becomes essential.
Not because we need to go around locking out every controlling or domineering person we encounter,
And not because we need to become people of only rules and regulations; there must be second chances for mercy to flow.
But rather, we need to open the door wide to those who welcome, warm, refresh, strengthen and challenge the heart.
And we need to close it to those who demean, ridicule, imprison and manipulate the soul.
Learning when to lock the door and expand it takes a lifetime of wisdom, love and self-control.
Learning takes a lifetime of failing and succeeding.
It’s a hard lesson, but it is attainable.
It’s a arduous journey, but it is worth it.
Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?
Amos 3:3
Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
1 Corinthians 15:33
Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
When you have to go to Fl for a memorial, stay in a place you’ve never been but want to explore.
When you have to go, but a hurricane is barreling in, drive on down to The Keys and stay a night in comfort, away from the howling wind.
We he original Mrs. Mac’s, on Key Largo, has the most amazing key lime pie!
When it’s raining in paradise, make a drive to a fun dive and remember the sunset from yesterday.
When the dockside you want isn’t open and other places are too full or the hours are funky, just stop searching and try to enjoy the mediocre food you find at a cool dive.
Skippers food is decent, but this blonde sundae is to die for!!The key lime wasn’t so great.
When you get burned from the less than desired cuisine, have a do-over at the hotel convenience … sit out on the balcony and enjoy good food, good service, and sweet conversations with both the waitress and your love.
Gus’s Grille at the Marriott in Key Largo is great! The apple pie is delicious! The key lime pie is scrumptious!
Feels like island time already.
When you have to plan for the days ahead and make some decisions, sit out by the island waters, under a tiki hut, in a bamboo chair swing, and let the coastal breeze wash all over you.
When you can’t bring your boys with you, and they made because they missed the adventure, you stop by a favorite to bring our home to them…and enjoy a slice yourself in the beautiful garden out back.
The Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory has the absolute best key lime in the Keys! Their expanded garden is a wonderful place to sit and take a breather, and of course, to enjoy your slice!
When you have a free place, save a little money and head back to your original destination after the storm has blown through.
But take the long way through the swamps. It’s a prettier, more laid back experience.
Remember, you’re here for the adventure.
When you find your place to be amazing, but the beach town to be a little less than, go exploring nearby.
Remember, you’re here to make a memory.
When the days have been upside down and the busyness of life is taking a toll, take a little stroll along the seashore…or maybe two or three.
Along the way, stop and smell the roses, or take in the sight of the massive, gigantic trees, as it were.
The pictures just don’t quite do it justice. The dimensions of this tree are mind-blowing!
When you see that the feasts prepared are good, but maybe not great, find the one suggested and let it remind you why you make a meal an event.
Matanza’s By the Bay is absolutely amazing!!Be sure to get the salted caramel cheesecake and the pb pie…OH. MY!!
Amazing food, beautiful scenery, and fun conversations can bring the two of you back to younger days, deeper love and a stronger friendship.
When you have to go to a memorial, to be there for a friend, make it an adventure along the way.
Remember, it’s not always about the destination. Sometimes, it’s more about the time spent together and dreams fulfilled.
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
Philippians 4:8
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Have you ever felt like you were hit by a Mack Truck? Maybe you’re not familiar with the term. Growing up in a rural community in Northwest Florida, we used this term anytime we felt like a sickness had just taken hold of us, or maybe when someone had had a rough night of sleep (or sometimes, even with an alcohol binge). We’d say, “I feel like I’ve been hit by a Mack Truck!” Or “You look like you’ve been hit by a Mack Truck!” 😂
Now that I’m older, I’ve still used the phrase from time to time; however, once I realized what a Mack Truck really was, I’m kind of thankful that was just a phrase. For surely, being hit by a Mack Truck in reality would leave one much worse than what I have felt when using the phrase. When I’ve claimed this destructive weight has hit my life, I suppose, I’m almost whining in comparison to what it would really feel like for that 5-ton vehicle to slam into me.
Sometimes, we do overstate our life conditions, don’t we? Yet, when we’re in the middle of the storm, it’s often hard to see beyond the tornadic winds we are experiencing. So, if you’re feeling down today, or maybe you’re even feeling like a Mack Truck has invaded your solitude, just hold on a minute, and let the chaos pass.
You can make it through, if you’ll just not give up. If you quit now, you’ve let that 5-ton machine win, but it doesn’t have to end that way! Get up! Even if you have to crawl to the curb and signal for help. Sometimes, you may have to lean on someone to help you through rather than being “Mr./Mrs. Independent.” That’s ok, cuz we’ve all been there… both with the Mack Truck and with making it through with the help of a friend!😉
My journey didn’t stop with mere time travel or writing; it led me to become one of the most sought-after empaths, a soulful psychic who reads the hidden depths of the human spirit. I’ve been blessed—or perhaps burdened—with an ability that allows me to feel the emotions of people from every corner of time.
I am a licensed psychologist based in Greece. My love for housekeeping has inspired me to create this blog about home management and family relationships. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing!
Dedicated to movie nerdom, nostalgia, and escape. In the late 90s, I worked at Blockbuster Video where they let me take home two free movies a day. I caught up on the classics and reviewed theatrical releases for Denver 'burbs newspapers and magazines. Today, while raising two young, beautiful daughters with my amazing wife, I look forward to anything rated R and not Bluey. Comments and dialogue encouraged!
the grizzle grist mill 