I Have Become So Soft
I was talking with a friend recently who has lost his home and livelihood do to an unprecedented flood in his region. He was separated from his family as they were housed in a small school with other women and children. In turn he was left to build a temporary house made of sticks and plastic bags during the rain and floods. We were able to help get him and others some food and essentials until he figured out a more lasting solution. After a few weeks he was able to take a canoe to a dry village in the county and find a mud hut for rent. He had no money but the hut owner was willing to trade him a months rent for a couple of goats. A good bargain I guess.
That’s when he called me and explained his predicament.
Friend: “Joshua, I found a place to stay. I want to bring my family to stay with me but I have nothing to sleep on. Can you help me get a mattress?”
Me: “Of course we can help you. How many mattresses do you need?”
Friend: “Only one brother. I know they are expensive.”
Me: “One? Don’t you have a pregnant wife and 3 children?”
Friend: “Yes brother, but one is enough for me and my family.”
One mattress! Five people! A pregnant woman!
I was caught again in that place where I usually try to avoid. You know. That uncomfortable place. This time I was face to face with my own weakness. The reality of how soft I have became as an American male slapped me right between the eyes. I know there are many ways to justify it and many excuses why I should not feel that way, but they are all lame.
My heritage is actually amazing when properly considered as is many Americans. I am a product of pioneers, explorers, conquerors and revolutionaries. Still I strive, beg and struggle for comfort, dependability and security. I don’t know how I got so soft, but I hope this isn’t my end. I don’t want to be soft and ineffective but instead I want to be a conqueror in every situation.