Dear Friends, 

Scooters have taken over my hallway. 

Last November, my six-year-old daughter Charlotte, received a scooter for her birthday. Then at Christmas, three-year-old Isaac got his own. With ice and cold outside, the kids took to our long hallway to practice their skills. Up and down they went with the occasional running into the walls or each other (and sometimes the dog!) The wheel lights lit up throughout the early morning and through the day until the sun set. Eventually we took them to the church gym to expand their riding. At the gym they could turn and go in circle after circle. They lifted their legs in ballerina-type poses. With each ride, they became more and more graceful. And every time they rode, their smiles filled their faces. 

Finally, with some warmer weather and dry sidewalks, we ventured outside. “Zoom, zoom,” they cheered. “Come on mommy, let’s go!” Charlotte yelled to me as she approached the road wanting to cross and ride around town. For both of them, as soon as they hit the sidewalk with their scooters, they took off. The weeks of practicing inside our house and in the church, proved fruitful. They were ready to go. 

Now most days we take a ride around our town. Both kids are in front of me barreling down the sidewalk while I follow behind. I marvel at their ease and skill. I give thanks for their confidence, and the joy they feel as the wind rushes through their hair.

Inevitably, though, at some point, Isaac gets tired. “I can’t ride my scooter anymore,” he tells me with his head bent down and his arms drooping by his side. Charlotte keeps whizzing ahead so I take Isaac’s scooter and walk with him the rest of the way home. Some days I pick him and the scooter up. Together, we arrive home. 

So here’s the thing friends, this isn’t just about scooter riding (as fun as they are), but perhaps there’s something in your life that is taking time, practice, and a little bit of patience on your end. Maybe you’re in a new job, or searching for one, maybe you’d like to get closer to God, or maybe there’s a relationship that needs attention. Whatever it is, trust that the slow, small acts are valuable. Remember that each time you pick up the phone, or do a Google search, or open your Bible, or offer a prayer, you’re building a foundation. Take your time. Learn the contours of your soul and spirit. Pay attention to what trips you up and where you need more practice. 

And then, when you’re out in the world wondering if anything has made a difference, remember that God walks with you, and is there to pick you up when you fall.

With gratitude, 

Kim

// Want to receive a few more love letters this month? Sign up here to join my friend, Erin and I, from February 10-17th for Abundant Love. We’ll send an email each morning with a Bible verse, reflection, questions for pondering, and a practice for the day. We’d love to have you join us and our hope is that you will be reminded of God’s rich love for you, and inspired to share that love with your neighbors.