More

I label my blog, “Just_Plain_Beck” because I am Just. Plain. Beck.

This past weekend I was called anything but Just_Plain_Beck.  As I was told I am more than plain, I did the typical eye rolling, head shaking, denying, minimizing, refuting etc.  Yet, there was persistence by more than one person to tell me I am more.

I could sum up my weekend in 2 words, even though I was challenged to see and be more.  Those two words are: Loved and Cherished.  Yes, I felt loved and cherished.

I traveled to Virginia to “do life” with an amazing lady and her family.  I met this lady during a really tough week.  We met at The Journey Continues.  She was my body outline tracer and I traced hers.  We learned about each other throughout the week at The Journey.  When it was time to part, we kept in touch.  Facebook, text and email.  We have not seen each other in person since that week in Michigan, but the friendship bond was strong (at least in my eyes).   So after prayer and discussion, I decided to take the trip to Virginia.

I was welcomed with open arms.  

My typical response of withdrawing when I am overwhelmed with meeting new people was not there.  I stayed engaged as I met the husband, at home kids, parents and friends.  Before the night was over, my heart was full.

I enjoyed the times of conversation, opening up and processing.  I was taken aback at how easy it was to be open and how a man felt safe for me to share with.  I was taken aback at how easily the kids engaged me in their activities.  My heart melted when I was called, “Miss Becky.”  “Miss Becky” is much different than “Just_Plain_Beck.”

Even though it may sound odd to people, especially overwhelmed mothers, I enjoyed doing life in a house that was full of activity.  It was a privilege to witness firsthand the struggles and blessings of being a Christian parent, but more than that, a devoted and loving parent. 

The word I am coming away with is “more.”  Yes, I am more.  I desire more.  Yes more memories surfaced and more triggering occurred.  I received more night time hugs than ever before in my life.  I experienced more delays in travel than ever before.  I opened up more freely.  I have more people in my corner, on the journey path with me.  I added more wine to my collection and tasted more new beer.  I enhanced my pallet with more new foods.  I have more challenges to work on.  But more than anything, I have a deeper respect and more love for my sweet friend.

I left Wisconsin not knowing what to expect.  I left Virginia wanting more.