Everyone has a story...

Everyone has a story.

Some people have stories filled with grief, and sorrow. Others have stories of abandonment, betrayal, and loneliness. Some stories take unlikely twists and turns that lead places one never thought possible. Some stories are unfortunately cut short, leaving the world to wonder what the end of the story would have looked like. But the cool thing about stories, is each person has their own. My story is mine, and yours is yours. Our stories may have similar chapters, or cross paths, but no one can take my story away from me.

My story isn't the prettiest. If my story were on a shelf at the public library, it wouldn't be wrapped in fine leather, or have a beautiful picture on the front. My story isn't one tied up neatly with a bow, free of clutter. In fact, it is quite the opposite. My story is messy and dirty. It is the book in the library that no one wants to pick up because it is covered in dust. It is filled with disappointment, shame, and failure. It takes me on a journey I never anticipated, through trials I never thought possible.

Though my story isn't perfect, it has gotten me to where I am today. My story, however messy, is overflowing with grace and mercy. At the root of each chapter is more love than I can comprehend, and blessings in full. I am tired of letting others tell me I should be ashamed of my story, or omit parts of it. That would be like reading a book with the middle chapters missing. My story points to a savior worthy of praise, and a God of redemption. For that--I want to share my story.

Take time to listen to others' stories. Pick up that story covered in dirt, and see what is hiding underneath. There is always more to the story than the cover.