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These four items look may totally unrelated, 

but in my mind they are bound together.

They were surprises today. 

I was expecting the book, but not until later this week.

Each one represents a different, valuable relationship.

A relationship developed over time by shared experiences.

A relationship based on and fed by trust.

A mentor of 40+ years sent me a copy of their life story to read. I am honored by that level of trust. I knew they'd written it but thought it was only for their family.

It was a privilege this last year to share life with one of my current soccer girls and four other young women in a small group that gathered in my family room.

One of my heart birthed sons brought this Calla Lily and his daughter to my house. He sends me gospel music links. He texts. He talks to me about deep things. Asks hard questions about life. I don't think I could love him more if he'd come from my womb.

Someone I have loved deeply for years trusts me enough to say "Hey, our communication needs some help. I want to share a healthy relationship. If you read this book, I think it will help our relationship grow." That takes courage and vulnerability and strength.

I am amazed at how God worked it so all of these things came to my house today. Opening them one after the other grabbed my attention in a way that would not have happened if they'd arrived separately.

Investing in the lives of others builds beautiful relationships that cannot be had any other way. Intentional, unhurried, prolonged, everyday, ordinary, repeated face to face interactions builds strong bonds that being forced to have only Facetime interactions cannot sever. 

When we are able to meet together, let us take full advantage of opportunities to build healthy relationships. Until then, let's do all we can to encourage one another. Use whatever means you have available to stay in touch. Don't give into the temptation to let relationships stagnate, slide, decay or die because we have to do it different than we are used to. Don't allow "but we've never done it that way" be your mantra to keep you from using technology or "old fashioned" things like telephone calls and letters to reach out. 

Invest in the lives of others. The dividends are high.

Hebrews 10:24-25
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."