name calling

“Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

"Did he just call you a monster!?!"

The teacher was horrified. Ms. Hardy reached my checkout counter just as i was checking books out to her students. It is our practice to tell kindergartners (usually with some expression) the title of their book when we check them out. Ms. Hardy approached my desk at an untimely moment, only to hear me plead, "Quit Calling Me a Monster".  

We both had a good laugh afterwards... when i explained to her i was only reading the title of the book to the student.

Father, thank You for light moments. Laughter is always good; but during tense or difficult seasons, it is a very welcomed dose of medicine. Thank You too for the reminder of speaking kindly to others. Unfortunately, there are times my actions and words might justify others calling me a monster. Yet, additional negativity is rarely the remedy called for with a bothered heart... understanding love is.  Father, help me to remember we often are or become what others say.  Let what we say be good, uplifting and kind. May our actions/reactions help grow princesses and princes in Your heavenly kingdom.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it... for us and for others,
veneal