Perspective

A quote from Andrew Murray:

In time of trouble, say, "First, He brought me here. It is by His will I am in this strait place; in that I will rest." Next, "he will keep me here in His love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child." Then say, "He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lesson she intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow." And last, say, "in His good time He can bring me out again. How and when, He knows." Therefore, say, "I am here (1) by God's appointment, (2) in His keeping, (3) under His training, (4) for His time."

I am here

by God's appointment

in His keeping

under His training

for His time.

Love is a real good thang

Valentine's Day started early for me this year. Yesterday, I walked in from work and found these waiting for me:

Major husband points there. 

Today, I found this on my doorstep (unopened, of course):

Major mom points there. 

Since college, I've been guaranteed mail from my mother at least one day a year, and that's Valentine's Day. She sends me a care package full of silly dollar store goodies, and this one did not disappoint--complete with Valentine's Day cups, socks, napkins, hot chocolate, candy galore, a little mini-rose growing pot, some of my favorite hand lotion (Gold Bond Ultimate Healing, anyone?) and even this little surprise:

I mean, it's not Valentine's Day without a pair of 21X9-inch inflatable lips! Can't wait to hang those from the chandelier. 

Seriously, though, I feel most loved when there's thought behind how someone shows it. Flowers are great, but what I really appreciate is the fact that Phil took time this past week to order them and have them ready for me when I walked in the door. Even something as goofy as inflatable lips make me feel loved because my mom took part of her day to go to the store, fill a box with goodies, and make the trip to the post office. These things take time, and when someone takes time on my behalf, spending any part of their life considering me, I feel humbled and loved.  

What makes you feel most loved? What's the most thoughtful thing someone has done for you...or that you've done for someone else?