Today was a day when I was on outdoor supervision for our school. At the edge of our playground are 3 tall spruce trees. Throughout both the morning and afternoon recess breaks I was fascinated by the antics of 3 young men from our grade one class.
These 3 little fellows worked diligently to gather sticks from various parts of the playground. One would pick up a stick and come to tell me that he had found a “door post”. Another would show me the “camera” that he was attaching for security on their fort. Their imaginations had a great workout as they planned and devised, fixed and adjusted, built and rebuilt, the little fort in the trees. As things came together I could hear them encouraging one another for the good job they had done.
Humans seem to have an innate urge to build up things. We want our own space, our own turf. We love to put our stamp on things and have input. I enjoy teaching so much because I get the daily opportunity to put my “stamp” on the children – helping build them up as God’s children.
I have a few close friends who have been like those boys today. They have stood with me and encouraged me. They have gone to help me find the “sticks” to rebuild the fort of my life. They cheer me on as I struggle in my life’s journey. I could not easily build the “fort” of my life alone. God’s people have helped me immensely.
