The Ties That Bind

The other day I wrote about introducing myself as Donnette and leaving it at that. I practiced it this weekend while we were in South Carolina at Bob Jones University and at Columbia International University. I did well. No mention of being Bill's widow or one of the kids' mother. Just myself. I was pleased, relaxed, thinking "I made it!" Until we were almost done with dinner last night and the gentleman to my right asked if I work at KCU. I didn't stop to think. For 27 years the answer was "No, my husband is an administrator." When appropriate I also referenced what my children were involved in as students. Since Bill's death my reply has still referred to him having worked there as my tie in. "I am sorry for your loss" is the standard, sincere, but awkward response that follows.
I was thinking through that conversation last night, trying to decide how I want the next one to go, because as long as I travel with the teams, it will come again. I want to practice my reply in my mind so that I can speak it. The next time I am asked "Do you work at the school?" or "What do you do at the school?" I want to be able to say "I volunteer." Me. Donnette. The old ties no longer bind me there.  I choose to be involved. Serving, working in the flower beds, Soccer mom. These are part of the ministry God has called me to for now.

"Whatever you do, 

work heartily, 

as for the Lord and not for men, 

knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. 

You are serving the Lord Christ."

Colossians 3:23&24