While dining with a friend, I noticed someone standing in line who has been the source of great frustration and discontent for our family for several years. He was not open to discussion or conference.

I had encountered him once before at school and only made it to tolerate him. I was civil, but no more. I had failed and really wanted to do better if given another chance. This was it! The Word of Life encourage me:

“Do not conform yourself to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Rm. 12:2)

I went to greet him, wish him well in an upcoming event he was in and offered a bit of information he was unaware of that we had in common. He broke into a big grin and spoke (not something he does very freely) and we conversed briefly. As I was finishing my meal, he walked by and said, “Have a good day!”

Wow!  It was a milestone --- not as much for his speaking but that I finally had made it to really love him from my heart.

R.S., Southwest Region