The theme of last month’s LACE was ‘Life is Like a Game of Scrabble’ and during the evening we enjoyed a fun skit about the scrabble letter ‘Q’, who didn’t seem to be able to fit in, or get along with the other letters. I visited some of the tables at discussion time and I was surprised that many of the girls said they felt a bit like the letter ‘Q’, or at the least, had felt that way at different times.
Many things contribute to that ‘otherness’ feeling that we can experience. It may be painful experiences at home, school or with relationships in general. It may be cultural or even the colour of our skin that can alienate us from our friends and community. I must admit that I have struggled with that feeling of otherness because of my cultural background. I am the fourth generation of a travelling show family.
The above photo is of my grandmother and her brother with the horse and wagon. The wagon was their home; things had improved a little when I was born in the 50′s – my first home was a tent.
The other photo is one of my grandmother ‘spruiking’ in the Dead-Eye Shot tent show, which she performed in. Adapting to urban life after growing up in the colourful world of Sideshow Alley was difficult for me. People from the outside seemed so different and cruel. They had names for my family like carnies and gypsies.
But, when Jesus came into my life, His love, grace and mercy made it possible for me to find a home and experience acceptance in God’s house and society. I love that our LACE nights have enabled women to be honest about issues like isolation and alienation; that the girls can express their vulnerabilities and encourage each other with acceptance and understanding.
Next week’s LACE, Thursday 27th August, is ‘Life is Like a Box of Chocolates’. Most of us have a weakness for chocolates but sometimes the fillings are not what we hoped for. I remember the disappointment when, as a kid, biting into a chocolate-coated turkish delight and gagging. I would discreetly replace the half-eaten chocolate back into the box. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to do that with some experiences in life?
So come along and join us – it’s going to be a great night with lots of decadent chocolate eating going on, as well as some beautiful heart-heart discussions among the girls.
Love Bron xox
