12

 

My neighborhood bloomed with spring— new life, new beginnings. After all I experienced and learned this past year, my life felt new. I breathed in the scents as I walked through the neighborhood.

“The Father outdoes Himself in the spring.”

“Conrad.” I glanced at him as we continued to walk.

He flashed a smile. “Addy, I needed to give you one other message.”

I stopped and gazed into his eyes. “Yes?”

His compassionate expression and eyes probed deep. “Now comes the time for you to teach what you have learned.”

A knot formed in my stomach. “But, I’m not a teacher or good at speaking.”

“Really? What about the Pregnancy Center?”

I ducked my head and heat rushed up my neck. “Yes … well … I suppose if it’s on a small scale.”

Conrad laid a hand on my shoulder and looked me in the eyes. “Addy, God is calling you to share what you’ve learned. There are those who need to know these lessons, and you are meant to teach them.”

I bit my bottom lip and nodded.

“Just like Moses, God will give you the words and a helper.” He smiled and nodded. “Do not fear.”

Those words washed over me giving me peace. And Conrad was gone.

I told Emily about Julie and the scripture I’d read about being ready to give an answer for the hope in me as we sat across from each other in our familiar booth at the Chinese buffet.

Then, I sighed. “I’m so thankful to be able to sit here and have lunch with you. What a year!” I shook my head.

Emily’s gaze met mine, her eyes filled with tears. “I’m thankful you’re here, too.” She sniffed. Her mouth opened as if she were about to speak then she stopped.

I set down my fork. “What?”

“I’m not sure how crazy this is going to sound, but there’s something that I can’t get out of my head.”

“What is it, Emily?”

“Let’s teach together. You know, about what God’s taught you.”

Chill bumps ran up my arms. I smiled. “I guess you’re my Aaron.”

Emily’s brow wrinkled. I explained further about my last encounter with Conrad.

The rest of our lunch was spent excitedly planning for our women’s class.

When Griffey arrived home, I pounced on him, chattering away about the teaching plans. He just smiled and shook his head.

 

****

 

That Saturday morning Elianna came for a visit and asked if just she and I could go for a walk around the neighborhood. I agreed. As soon as we left the curb in front of our house, she started talking.

“Mom, I wanted to tell you that I’m being pushed from my comfort zone by someone I’ve met walking at our recreation center.”

Conrad’s face came to my mind immediately. Of course, he would come to mind since he had walked with me pushing me from my comfort zone. “Who is it? Another minister’s wife?”

“No, an older man. His name is Conrad.”

I stopped and felt my eyes bulging.

“He said he knew my mother.”

I nodded and swallowed. “Yes, I know Conrad.”

“He’s different than anyone I’ve ever met, but I trust him. He told me to not be afraid.”

I smiled and embraced Elianna. “You can trust him.”

As we finished our walk, I wondered what lessons Conrad had to impart to Elianna. Whatever it was, she was in good hands. I couldn’t wait to see what assignment God had for my daughter. I would do my part to encourage her to leave the safety of her comfort zone and go out on the limb with God. What an incredible view awaited her.