Uniquely crafted, cracks and all

"Well, no one's perfect!" 

     I'm sure you've heard that comment many times. Perhaps the phrase was often used as a reason for not measuring up to an appointed task. Nevertheless, it is certainly true. We all have flaws in our lives, each of us with our own idiosyncrasies, even though we have been uniquely crafted by the Divine Architect. 
     Of course, because of that disobedience in the Garden of Eden, we now deal with our humanness as we relate to each other. 
     Someone has likened us humans to cracked pots with all our cracks and flaws, but I think these are what make life interesting. We learn sooner, rather than later, that life is full of imperfect things and imperfect people. Accepting others' faults and celebrating the differences we see in each other, makes for healthy, lasting relationships. 
     I recently came across this saying, 

     "Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people." 

     There may be some truth to that. I have tried throughout my lifetime, to look for positive qualities in others. Sometimes though, I found myself involved in conversations regarding the lives of others which were totally inappropriate. Life is teaching me that words can hurt and I should choose them carefully. 
     

My mom, Lena (left), Terry Robertson (my sister, Merle's oldest son) and my brother Vincent Estabrooks.       

     Now, when I sense a conversation going in a direction that might suggest gossip, I try to redirect the thoughts of those involved. 

     I think my mom's rule was a good one, "If you can't find something good to say about someone, say nothing at all." 

Here is a wise poem I learned as a child:  

If you, your lips, would keep from slips, 

Of these five things — beware; 

Of whom you speak, 

To whom you speak, 

And How and When and Where.     

     A few thoughts to remember on our travels through life:  

1. Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of a battle. 

2. Never forget that justice is what love looks like in public. 

3. Don't be one who never gets over things. 

4. Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake. I'm sorry." 

5. Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket — keep it in your own!    

     Maxine says... "Even doctors make mistakes. Mine asked me to undress!"

 — beulah