Shoes

I've got this pair of black boots that I totally love. They have an awesome heel on them that helps me to achieve 6ft easily. When I walk in them, I feel like I can conquer the world.....for about an hour. Yep, these heels give me a back ache like you wouldn't believe. And while they look great on the outside, well, the inside is showing the wear from all the lovin I've given them. There's no way for you to know any of this of course, unless you put on my boots, and wore them around for a bit. I may look cute in them, and appear confident, but you have no way of knowing how they actually feel on my feet unless you put them on.

I was reminded once again about not making assumptions about people until you know the shoes they walk in. I've slowly begun to get to know some brand spankin new people. The time recently came in the relationship for a few walls to come down, and for hearts to be revealed a little bit more. I was astounded by knowledge that I never would've guessed by looking on from the outside. I was encouraged, challenged, humbled, and motivated to continue in friendship with them. Most of all I chastised myself to remember that everybody has a story. People aren't born the way they act at 20, 30, 40, and beyond. Things have happened to shape them into who they are today. If I take the time to wait to get to know the person behind the mask, I'll usually be rewarded with an authentic relationship. It takes a bit of time, but it is worth it.