Through A Different Pair of Eyes

Walking into Starbucks last night I felt like a complete mess....Hair thrown up into a pony tail head, unmatched sweatshirt and shorts on, and watery pink eyes. I got inside and sat down. Then, I realized I forgot my headphones in the car. Beginning to leave the store to walk back out to the car I began thinking to myself "awesome, now I have to go out and walk past all these people looking like a fool...again."

When I came back inside, two middle school age girls where staring at me.  This staring was not a wow look at that struggle, but had a look like they where obviously interested in something about me.  I gave the girls a friendly grin and continued to walk to an open table in the back.  Then, suddenly from behind me,  I hear one of them say "can I ask you a question? My friend and I saw your sweatshirt and we were wondering if you are in a sorority. We think that is so cool!" I began talking to them and told them that I was not, but tried to explain them that it was my dorms letters and what they represent. They then went on to ask me some other questions about college and I talked to them for a few minutes. Then, when our conversation was done, I told them that I hoped they had a wonderful night and it was nice talking to them.

Walking away, I noticed the girls had huge smiles on their faces.  It seemed like they really appreciated that some complete stranger would take the time to even talk to them.  But it made me think, how many times do I miss opportunities like this to show kindness to others, because I am so consumed with my thoughts being entirely focused on myself?  The first time I walked through the Starbucks, I never even noticed them.  It made me think how much more joy I could bring to others just by opening my eyes to the world around me and asking the Lord to reveal to me others who I can show His love to each day.  It reminded me of the song lyrics from Hosanna by Hillsong United.

Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like You have loved me

Break my heart for what breaks Yours

Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause