I had something happen to me today that hasn't ever happened before. I had someone Pay It Forward. And y'all, it was just the nicest thing and certainly started my day off right.
K.C. has a book fair at his school this week and so instead of just dropping him off, we went in and I let him pick out a few books for himself and his brother. When I left, I had a few minutes to spare, so I decided to drive thru Starbucks. I woke up way earlier than usual and couldn't go back to sleep and with a very busy and long day ahead, I thought some caffeine was in order. {I don't know why I always feel the need to justify my Starbucks.} A friend and neighbor of mine was in front of me and when I pulled up to the window to get my Grande Caramel Macchiato with soy and extra caramel {of course!}, she had paid for it. How sweet is that? I immediately texted her to thank her and it truly brightened my morning.
Unfortunately, there wasn't anyone behind me so I didn't get to pay it forward, but it made me begin to think about the way I live my life and paying it forward in other areas. I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel like I'm so busy and rushed in the mornings {especially on gym days} and even during the day that I don't take the time to really soak in the very few moments I have with my family in the morning, much less pay attention to strangers. This week, I made a silent vow to myself to not say "hurry up" or "we're running late."
Today, I want to add a not so silent vow to pay it forward. I want to pay it forward with a smile, an opened door, a more attentive ear and the effort of going out of my way to speak to people I see in the hall even if I am rushed. I want to pay it forward with a silent prayer for those I know are hurting and worried. I want to have an attitude that reflects Christ's love and the actions that back it up. Just as my sweet friend paid if forward without asking for anything in return, God paid if forward for you and me with the gift of His Son. So as the cup of coffee I was freely given brightened my day, I want to walk in the light of the Grace that has been freely given to me and pay it forward in my actions and words.
What are some ways you've paid it for or had it paid forward for you?
