THE OILS OF LIFE

Dear Abby,

I just came from a little store on the corner where I go for cards and cleaning items. It seems to me that the people who run this store are a little on the crude side. It may be that this is the only place they can get a job, I'm not sure. The reason I mention it is that my heart always goes out to them.

Today there was a new cashier. She was smoking by the front door as I entered the store.. Later, I had a chance to talk with her because she was the one that waited on me. She was very friendly but sort of "down." She asked if I had a good New Year. I replied that I hoped it would be a good one since it had only gotten started four days ago! She then began to say things like "Maybe it'll get better," and "I hope it gets better." This gave me the idea that she wasn't happy nor did she have any assurance that anything good was in her future. I paid for my goods and then gave her a pamphlet to read with the assurance that she could have a very bright future. It was "GOD'S SIMPLE PLAN OF SALVATION."

Compassion is one of the oils of this life. We meet people everyday that are in need of compassion. (Sometimes we are one of them.)

Gratefulness is another precious oil of life. There is nothing more obnoxious than a person who is ungrateful. When we thank someone for helping us, for a gift received or for a service rendered, we are pouring out a blessing on them. A very difficult load can be lifted from someone who knows they are appreciated.

Politeness is another one of those oils. Never use shyness as an excuse to be rude. We should always acknowledge another person when they enter our personal space or if we pass them in the hallway at church, school or work. People who will not speak to another show the worst kind of arrogance. How sweet to be the recipient of a nice smile and a "hello." And don't forget those hugs for your parents and siblings from time to time!

No matter how old a person is, a warm hello can bring a little oil to life. Please remember the new girl in class or the one who feels left out. Be polite and include those who are lonely.

One more oil that keeps life running smoothly is thoughtfulness. How delightful it is for a daughter to do things around the home without being asked. Or maybe doing something for a teacher or friend that is totally unexpected. What an encouragement that can be to them.

Life is full of friction. It comes from sources such as people, difficult circumstances and even from within ourselves. We, as Christian women, must get that fresh oil from spending time with the Lord. You are not too young to develop a time alone with Him everyday. A good place to start is reading out of Psalms and Proverbs. Ask the Lord for that fresh oil to keep life running smoothly. You are a delight to be with at this wonderful time of life. My prayer is that you get even sweeter as the days go by.

"May the Lord watch between you and me when we are absent one from the other." Love you much,

Grammy