Hope in a Paper Bag

Hope can come from some pretty strange places. I’ve recently been reminded of that. And I couldn’t be more grateful for it.

It’s been a really hard several weeks in my house. More specifically, I’ve had a rotten last week or so. My anxiety and depression have been through the roof and my normal methods of combatting it aren’t working. Today was one of the worst days I’ve had in a very long time. And by the end of the day. I was praying for God to please send me some encouragement. Please let someone encourage me.

My friend didn’t know any of that. She couldn’t have. But up she walked carrying a paper bag from Trader Joe’s. I almost fell over when I saw her there. And then she said some stuff to me that I really needed to hear. And without even knowing the impact of what she’d done, she went home.

And there it sat. On the back of my husband’s car.

Hope.

In a paper bag.

My eyes teared up as I carried it inside. And for the first time in a hot minute, the tears weren’t from grief. They were tears of joy.

If the thought crosses your mind to do something for someone you care about, and it’s in your power, do it. Don’t wait. Don’t hesitate. That thing that may not seem like a big deal to you could be the thing that gives someone else the hope to keep on keeping on. I know it was for me today.

My friend would probably claim that it wasn’t that big of a deal. She definitely wouldn’t want public recognition. She does good things quietly. And she doesn’t expect anything in return. She’s a wonderful person. And I love her. And while it may have seemed like such a small thing to do, it made a huge difference in my heart.

For all of you out there who struggle to find hope in your situation, like me, take heart. And keep your eyes open. You might just be surprised where hope will show up for you. Today I found mine in a paper bag.

Braundi