Dear Gramps,
You are the most successful person whom I know. That is why I am writing this letter to you—to let you know all of the things about you that I admire. The characteristic that stands out about you the most is how “spiritual” you are. Let me explain what I mean by that. You have always been so kind and loving to everyone you meet, especially me. The kind words that you have spoken to me will always be remembered. You have a personal relationship with God and spend time with Him every day in prayer and in the Word. You are careful to teach what is true. I have never ever seen you become angry. You have given generously to people trying to raise funds to go on mission trips. You seem really “holy” to me, yet you are humble and admit that you have your own downfalls. You have always demonstrated hospitality towards me, welcoming me into your home. I really appreciate that. It made me feel special.
There are two “worldly” qualities that I admire in you. I love your sense of humor! You always know how to make me laugh. The other quality is your vast knowledge. I have been trying for the longest time to find something that you don’t know, but I have been unsuccessful in the endeavor.
I guess you are successful in my eyes because you are the closest representation (of all of the people I know) of how Christ lived. Becoming more and more like Christ is success. Genuinely loving others with Christ’s love is success.
Thank you for the example that you’ve provided me all of these years.
Love,
Your Triple B
1. If I really respect these characteristics in someone else, why is it so hard for me to develop them in myself?
2. Do I have an appropriate view of calling or have the distortions blinded my eyes to the truth?
I think one reason it seems so hard to develop those traits in yourself if because you are your worst critic. You may have some of the exact traits you love about your Gramps, but you might not see the same way that others might. Another reason is simply because God made us all different. All of my life I have wanted to be that person that is always happy and always smiling about everything, but that is just not how God made me! I can't always be happy, being happy all the time makes me angry! But I am sure that there are traits that you have that people wonder why they can't "be like Leah." It's just so hard to see from your own perspective, or at least from mine it is! :)
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