Award-winning Publishers Weekly Best-selling Author

“Simon says touch your toes,” Murray said to the group of us playing the game.

I reached down and touched my toes.

“Simon says twirl around.”

I obeyed.

“Scratch your head.”

I obeyed.

“Darlene, you’re out! I didn’t say Simon says.”

“Ahh, I did it again,” I said as I plunked myself down on the grass to watch the rest of the game.

I was always a follower. Sometimes without thinking. Why? I guess I didn’t want to be a leader. Or maybe because I was scared to be the first one to make a mistake.

There were also times when I followed the wrong person and did something I shouldn’t have. Still do at times. Will I ever learn?

However, there are also people in life who are great examples. No, their lives aren’t perfect and they fail at times, but they learn from their mistakes and move on.

My mother was a great example for me (once I finally realized that she was always right!). I watched when something exciting was happening in her life and the joy was evident on her face. I remember the time when she came with us to a Jays game in Toronto. She sat on the edge of her seat clapping and cheering so loud I had to place my hands on my ears. It was fun to see her act like a school girl again!

There were also times when she faced trials. While she didn’t have the exact same smile on her face, she chose joy in everything. Even when her husband passed away. She knew he was in a better place with full memories, not fragmented ones.

More recently, she faced another trial when she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Yet, there was still a peace about her.

This is the example I want to follow. Why? Because she followed Christ. He is the greatest example of all.

I want to hang out and play “Simon Says” with Him!

Will you join me?

She placed a triangle in the center and two more on each side to form her “Flying Geese” pattern. She stopped for a moment to reflect on the center triangle—the leader. Geese always follow the leader in their formation, even when they may take a wrong turn. She thought of her Leader—Christ. He never wavered throughout her life. He kept her on the right track and ultimately made her formation a perfect one.

Proverbs 13:20 (The Message)

“Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.”

Note: Check out my new page by clicking on the “Other writings…” tab. I’ve posted some articles there and will continue to add some new ones. Feel free to leave a comment. I love hearing from you!

3 Comments

  1. JLM

    I’m sorry to hear that you’ve since lost your Mom (since, meaning since I last spoke with you). Perhaps my initials and my testimony on my WordPress blog will serve as a reminder of my identity. God’s richest blessings to you and yours 🙂

    Reply
  2. Julie Richmond

    What a fun entry Aunt Darlene! I want to play “Simon Says” with Him also!! 🙂 Grammie definitely set an example to find the joy in everything, that is one of her lessons I try to live by everyday. Love you xoxoxo

    Reply
  3. susan steeves

    Can I play too!! My Mom My Mentor who followed hard after Christ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Love ya Sis

    Reply

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