Take my hand

Today, my daughter and I went on a shopping trip together. I'll be honest, it's been over a year since we probably did this because well, you know, COVID!!! As we pulled into the parking lot and started walking to the store, my daughter grabbed my hand tightly and said "momma, I'm scared". It took me back for a moment, but then as I thought about it, realized that yes, to a 6 year old who's not been in a store for over a year the prospect was quite daunting! I held her hand and reassured her that she would be fine and that we were going to have some fun together! Sure enough, it didn't take long before she was having a great time and we enjoyed picking out all we needed.

What appears scary and frightening to a six year old may seem silly to an adult but the reality is she was nervous and overwhelmed. The simple act of holding hands, however, quickly alleviated that worry and assured her that she was safe alongside me!

As an adult, we often forget the importance of holding someone's hand for support. Yet, that is what the Big Guy does ... He holds His hand out for us constantly and our only job is to reach for it. I wonder what stops us from doing that? Through prayer, however, we can connect and feel like we're holding on tightly and that sense of calm washes over us to remind us of His presence.

Life is tough, but when we hold hands - be it in the Big Guy's, a friends, a child's, or a parent - we are reminded how we never have to travel through the journey alone. So today I DARE you to reach out and seek a hand that can walk beside you and reassure you through life's challenges. Friends are a blessing from God for sure and provide that tactile sensation we seek!

Here's to holding hands.