People Want People

Like you, I have gone through hard. In fact, I have a bit of hard in my life even know. Not the hard that my hair is getting more and more gray, quicker, and quicker. And not the hard of losing those last five pounds.

Although, let’s be honest, that’s hard.

Hard like relationship hard. Know what I mean?

By the goodness of God, in my darkest seasons, I have had women come alongside me. I have had them keep the door open for me. They have kept Kleenex in their living rooms so I could cry. They have listened, and listened some more, as I processed. And even my friends that only drink dark coffee, kept creamer in their fridge because they knew I only like processed, sugary creamer.

A girl has to live.

Life is hard enough as it is to have to wonder if we can find safe people. Meanwhile, many of us are paralyzed because we want the perfect charcuterie board, dusted baseboards and laundry bins empty, which dear friend, is only a mirage.

People want people, not fancy.

People want invitations. People want to be listened to and handed a tissue when they need it. People want time to linger and another glass of rose on your back porch. People want to see that your kids throw tantrums because theirs do, too. People want to see your home imperfect because chances are they have crumbs on their floor as well. People want you, not your home, not your things, not even your food.

You.

People have been God’s saving grace for me in the dark. You might be waiting right now for that friend. Here’s my thought. If you are waiting, try being that friend and see if it is returned. And as you do, remember, people want people, not fancy.