Whippin' Post

One of my all time favorite bands is the Allman Brothers. They were popular some time in the 70's I believe. I didn't really start listening to them until after high school, after one of the two brothers was killed in a motorcycle accident. Over the years I have enjoyed hearing a good guitar solo and some of their blues-ie tunes. I like the classic rock sound of their music. On their "Eat a Peach" release they perform a song called "Whippin' Post." In my not-so-professional opinion, its one of their best blues type songs. The singer says for some lengthy reasons including a cheatin' woman,.............. "sometimes I feel like I've been tied to the whippin' post, Good Lord I feel like I'm dyin'" All that to say this, today was that kind of day. It started out well enough, with a bike ride, a nice coffee, and some stops at a few yard sales, but somewhere along the way the day began to deteriorate. I think it had something to do with a lie and then a cover up and then another lie and a few harsh words, some tears, a dash of disappointment, more tears, a slammed door, then some time of reflection and digestion of the entire event. I grow weary just recounting the loose framework of the situation. I love my children. I love their energy, their spontaneity, their friendship, but I cannot tolerate their lying. It carves deep etchings into my mother's heart which swells with tears, ready to burst like a too-full water balloon.
As the day wore on the sadness began to lift, ample hugs were shared and the remnants of the Refiner's fire lay lightly on the floor in a pile of ash. I had to once again realize that although my children are excellent, wise young people, they are not perfect. They will make mistakes, they will fail at times. It is but by the grace of God that they even have the ability to stand.
Sweet peace comes by trusting in God's promise that He gave to me years ago in Ps. 27...that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. I cling to that verse as a promise that over time I will see His goodness lived out in each one of their lives.