You know the saying “Don’t let your own storms get your people yet?” I used to really like it.

But truthfully, the more I think about it, I really don’t think I do.

Because here’s the deal — our storms ARE going to get our people wet. They just are. We weren’t made to carry our burdens on our own.

We need each other.

And when I’m facing hard circumstances or am in a particularly tough season, it’s going to affect those I’m closest to.

My husband will have to carry more weight around the house.

My kids will have to entertain themselves more often.

My friends and extended family will have to hear more “no” than “yes.”

They have to brave the storm along with me. I wish they didn’t, but honestly, it’s inevitable. And you know what else? I think there’s something really beautiful about that.

My people don’t turn away when I walk through the valley. They choose to take my hand and walk through it with me.

And I hope they know that when the rain clouds find them, too, I will be standing right there, ready to ride the waves right along with them.

Because that’s just what we do for our people. We walk through life’s storms together.

It’s the only way we’ll get to shore.

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