Fulfilled: Devotions For Single WomenSample

Who Am I Now?When we tire of well-worn ways, we seek for new. This restless craving in the souls of men spurs them to climb, and to seek the mountain view. - Ella Wheeler Wilcox

A widow received a complimentary trip to a prestigious resort in the rolling hills of Texas. The woman enthusiastically embarked on this solo venture. It was the first time she had driven long-distance by herself. But her life was punctuated with first-time experiences. This would be a pleasant one.

The hotel bell captain recommended that she drive to Mount Bonnell to see a panoramic view of the city. She had a fear of heights, but since it wasn’t Mount Everest, she was determined to accept another challenge. When she made it to her destination, there were 100 steps from the parking lot to the panoramic view. Could she make it? She’d had a double knee replacement, but the doctor had assured her that her titanium knees were ready for anything. So she started the climb. A person coming from the top saw her exhaustion and encouraged her, “Don’t stop! The view is worth the climb.”

Several months later she met a friend who was also a widow. Her friend asked her, “Do you think our husbands would recognize us now?”

Both women agreed that their men would be amazed by their changes, new goals and accomplishments. Both women had chosen to become better instead of bitter. Now one is a radio talk-show host and the other is an author. Both are Bible teachers traveling the country. They are vibrant, single, mature women. The journey hadn’t been easy, but the renewed attitudes and lofty aspirations had been worth the climb.

Keep climbing through uncertainty and difficulty. Don’t stop! The view is worth the climb.

Father, may I have a deeper assurance that You never change and that You will never leave me or forsake me.

Sheila Bailey