I used to think a rich life was one of happiness.
I made as many friends as possible, moved around constantly, and tried every new adventure.
I'm learning to let my roots grow deeper.
One of my best friends is moving to a different state tomorrow. I have spent so many days laughing and crying with this woman. My kids are friends with her kids. We walk in her house and immediately open the fridge. I am fairly certain we have covered every topic in the world. It's the rare friendship where you discuss bodily functions and the Holy Spirit in the same five minutes. And while I know her moving will not cut off our communication, it will eliminate sitting around the kitchen table while our kids play in the next room.
There is something about spending several years in the same place, having face-to-face conversations, and staying through shifting seasons. Pouring a significant amount of time and energy into a church, family, marriage, or friendship will bring so much more than happiness.
These kinds of relationships tend to start with baby steps. Small talk. Hang outs. Sunday mornings. Sweet dates. A few minutes in a busy schedule.
In time, however, the roots grow deeper. You share your struggles, and they share theirs. They carry you through your biggest hurdles. You cheer as they overcome their own. They lose a loved one, and your heart bursts alongside them. Before you know it, they see your good, bad, and ugly side and still love you. You learn their strengths and fears. You pray for them more than yourself. Their families become your family.
Where the roots grow deeper, there is happiness to be had and beautiful memories to pull out of your pocket. There is joy, excitement, and fun. Where the roots grow deeper, there is also sorrow, heartache, and tears. Where the roots grow deeper, there is room for forgiveness and grace. Where the roots grow deeper, there is much fruit.
I now have a love for my friends and family that is growing each day. Most of the time, this kind of love makes me grin ear-to-ear. Today, however, it brought bittersweet tears. I am thankful for it all.
I used to think a rich life was one of happiness.
Now, I see the richest part is where the roots grow deeper.
