You reap what you sow

We’ve all heard that line at some point in our lives. Perhaps you heard it from your mother, warning you as she sent you off to school after hearing about incidents of a child being teased in your class. Or maybe you heard it in reference as to why someone’s marriage has failed. Or it could be that you heard it as a good deed was done for you after you willingly helped someone else. Sometimes this phrase has negative connotations, and sometimes positive. But whatever the situation, this is one of those lines that, more often than not, tends to be true.

I’ve recently witnessed this to be so in my own life. A couple of weeks ago my paternal grandma passed away. It was rather sudden, and came as a shock to many of us (that could be a blog all of its own!). As we grieve our loss, my family has been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement we have received from those around us.

From the meals, to the flowers, to the cards, to the emails and Facebook messages, to the phone calls … it has touched our hearts and lives and helped us realize what a great community we live in.

The other day, as my dad was on the phone going over the details of the funeral, the person on the other end of the line commented on the overwhelming response we’ve received. He simply said: “Rick, this is your time to reap what you’ve sown.” How profound …

Many people in my parents’ world know that when in crisis, Rick and Cindy are the people to call. Whatever your need is, they’re always prepared to drop everything and come to your aid. From meals, to helping with renovations, to babysitting and picking up and dropping off kids, to helping with moving … you name it, they’ll do it. But they aren’t the only ones, my in-laws would have the same reputation. And so, as it’s in our DNA, my husband and I are the same. The families of those on thefamilyroom team, and others in my life, are the same as well.

But why do we do what we do? Is it because we want to stock up for when our time of need comes? Absolutely not! Rather it’s because we know the value of family and community.

We know the pain that comes with the loss of a loved one.
We know the trouble that comes with undergoing surgery and spending weeks in recovery.
We know the hassle and chaos that come with a big move.
We know that every once in a while a mom needs some time to herself.
We also know that there’s nothing like overcoming. And that’s why we do what we do. To help overcome. To be the support and encouragement that true friends and family are meant to be.

And so my challenge to you - as part of the greater familyroom network, no matter where in the world you are reading this blog - begin sowing something wonderful into the lives of those around you. Help those who have sown into your life reap what’s being deposited in you.

As all farmers know, in due time you will reap a harvest.

Love you and believe in you,
~cj
xoxox