Meet Mr. Thomnas. He is my two year old shetland pony. Now, throw in an angry neighbor who doesn't like Thomnas "poo" and you end up with a choice to make. Fight, move, or cave.
Thomans and his faithful sidekick (other known as Bandit the Pigmy Goat) are not welcome in the neighborhood.
I could have been mad I guess. I could have stomped off as the print out copy of some 45 year old, outdated ordinance was handed to my husband.
I didn't do that.
I went next door and knocked on their door. I apologized for the trouble it had unknowingly caused them. I let them know that I was truly sorry.
When I brought these animals into my life, I guess I didn't really consider that my neighbors might not share that same love and passion. They bring me great joy and peace and so it didn't cross my mind that they would be capable of bringing anything less to anyone else.
Because I approached this situation in this manner.....it brought tears to their eyes. Not anger. It brought peace between neighbors, not war.
I am now finding a new home for them. Relationships, showing love and compassion for one another, and finding a peaceful agreement is more important than my "dream of a mini farm".
In the midst of this...somehow the conversation opened up and he revealed to me that he had once truly believed in God and given his life...then somewhere he began to doubt. Ya, random. I know. But awesomely random.
We weren't able to finish the conversation right then because I had to leave to get to my art class that I teach on Thursday nights....but I believe it opened up a door for future conversations.
I think its a good life lesson. Today, approach the curve balls that life throws at you with one thing in mind......
God is good.....all the time. And ALL the time....God is good.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
The rest is gravy.
Have a blessed rest of the day! Glad you stopped by today. Come back again soon friend.