My mind set swirling an already nudge I had in my heart as I knew the words of truth she spoke. My friend is a trailblazer. I couldn't be more proud of her. She speaks her mind, stands in the crossfires despite what others believe. She's never been my feel good friend. She tells me like it is, she calls me out, and she is that brutally honest friend who you know exactly what she is going to say before she does. Respect is the key word in our friendship.

The world seems to be swirling before us. Sometimes the reality of the situation seems like another era I'm watching from the outside in. Many things divide us. Mostly on values and our moral principles. We feel out of control all of us, even those now on what seems to be the controlling side. Each day I have a nudge what can I do? Where is my spot in this. How can any single one of us make a significant change if any. Is it too far gone?

So last night as my friend shared the latest fight she is so valiantly in the trenches on. I cheered them on. I'm such a proud friend. Then she made the statement. You know Mandy, it's going to take all of us to stand up. The words hit my heart, that already open place that I have been trying so hard to fill. What she didn't know is I have been praying endlessly what to do. As a Christian I'm conflicted, we have to stand for peace. We have to meet in the middle. Yet my core isn't really good at that. I'm secretly outspoken. I am firm in my beliefs. I'm quick to be the one people call for wisdom on different topics. Yet I still find no purpose in the words I speak on a larger scale.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Exactly what I am not good at. I'm always fast to speak, fast to become angry and slow to listen. What a conflicting message when all I wanted was someone to tell me to finally stand out and unleash on what I feel is right. Take a stand.

Sometimes making change is sitting down and learning both sides. Sometimes as a Christian it is the smallest voice that those bow to hear. Being purposeful in this world isn't about who can make the most noise. It's quietly who can bring the most together. Finding a way we all can exist and find respect for each other. Something we have so greatly lost. It takes us all is absolutely accurate. Yet our differences is our strength. 

So I sit back again in prayer like many of you who can relate. How do I make a difference. The Lord has spoke to me to find your special gift that the world is fast to listen to. Slow to speak and slow to be angry. Find this place of respect and then we can all truly make a difference.  Is that in written word, in a song, or a small group? Is it serving on the board, running for office or leading a non profit?

In the world of masks, mandates, storms and strife. Remember who calmed the chaos with nothing more then a subtle wave of his hand. No words spoken. Everyday that gives me hope that we have someone far greater looking out for us. The one who gave us those subtle gifts to make a difference. One that is in control. Who is urging us to please slow down and listen.