Why hello there.
So nice to see you. You look exhausted, come sit with me a while. Take off your shoes, wipe the sweat from your brow.
I see you're still pushing your wheelbarrow around. Your load has grown since last I saw you. It must be heavy. No wonder you feel tired.
Let's see what you have in there. Oh yes, you still have hurts from two years ago and that nasty thing your cousin said when you were five. You've kept the apple that was thrown at you at school. The hurtful glare from your neighbour is polished and well preserved. Looks like you have cared for these things with great attention. Not one detail is missing.
How full are the other wheelbarrows?
You know, the ones of your friends and acquaintances. Have you deposited into them lately? Yes, I did say deposited.
No? So you've never offended anyone? Think carefully, I'm sure there must be something.
You didn't think about that did you? They must be tired too. Tired of pushing around old hurts from the past.
Let's try taking some things out of your wheelbarrow. That's it. Pick one up and have a good look at it. Is holding on to that going to add anything to your life? Just place it over here.
Now try lifting the wheelbarrow again. It's lighter isn't it? Yes it should be easier to push now, go on and give it a try. Haha! That's great. Spin it around and run it up that hill.
Now now, don't look longingly at what's been removed. It only weighs you down. I know you've become used to it. It's almost been a comfort to you, a companion. It justifies your actions, excuses your moods. It gives you reason to withhold from or punish others.
Time to let go of your wheelbarrow
It's time to let go of your wheelbarrow now. I know someone you can leave it with. He will take good care of it for you. That's it, now go and tell your friends.
Yes, I can see! You are running, now skipping and yes... even dancing. It's so much easier without your wheelbarrow.
Don't forget to tell your friends. They will love the feeling of releasing it too.
Remember, you can't get close to people if there's always a wheelbarrow coming between you.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11 verses 28-30 (NIV)
Rebecca and her husband Tony, have four children and live on the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Rebecca loves writing children stories, interest articles and teaching piano. She is grateful for a God who loves us.
Rebecca Moore's previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/rebecca-moore.html