Frogs Don't Have Ears!

My life seems to revolve around all things little boy. I have two little men. They are messy, adventurous, and inquisitive. They love science, nature, and animals. They express this love through exploration, observation, and hands-on discovery any chance they get. Both of my boys have had their hands on MANY frogs, but I have lovingly referred to my oldest as "frog master". He has this uncanny ability to catch frogs (he gets it from his daddy), and he has observed and handled hundreds in his short 5 year life. He can tell you their life cycle, what sounds they make, what they do in the winter, and their favorite spot at our home in the summer. So I was a bit surprised at the conversation the boys were having on the way to church Sunday.

They were talking about frogs. I was NOT surprised by THAT! My youngest said something about frog ears when E responded, "Frogs don't have ears!". I was enjoying their conversation, and didn't want to mess with the flow. (I mean the moments where they get along should be cherished!) However, I couldn't help but smile and laugh a bit as I explained that frogs actually did have ears. You just don't notice them because they aren't obvious. You have to know what you are looking for. You can't really see them well, but just because you can't see something doesn't mean it isn't there.

Then it hit me. That we are just. like. THAT! Just like the flat ears of a frog, we have so many parts of us that people cannot see. You cannot see anxiety. You cannot see depression. You cannot see pain. You cannot see strength, or hope, or courage. Sure you can see the effects of such things, but ONLY if you know what you are looking for, OR if someone tells you about it.  See I know frogs have ears because along the way someone has took the time to share that information.

The GOOD news!
We all have hidden parts of us. Parts that we wish weren't there. Parts that we'd rather not share with the world. We have been programmed to think that sharing our struggles makes us weak. BUT I am weak, and that's OK! In MY weakness, HE is made strong. God is strong without our weakness, but we have to let Him be glorified in our journey. We have to let HIM have control, and guide us to healing.We are only alone in our struggles if we allow ourselves to be. We have a God that loves us immeasurably more than we can imagine, and His will is to surround us with HIS people that will love and support us through it all. For me, that starts with my family and my lifegroup, and THIS blog! See even with those closest to me, I have a really hard time opening up. It isn't because I don't trust them, but I do not want to be a burden. I don't want them to worry so I try to put on a happy face and trudge on. BUT, that doesn't heal my soul, and it doesn't show my faith and trust in God! We are not designed to face our struggles alone.

Galations 6:2 - "Bear one anothers' burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."