Cookies and Apologies

I learned a hard lesson about honor yesterday.  The stage was set for a lovely afternoon of baking with Nana.  The tree was twinkling, the Christmas music was playing, the counter was covered with all things delicious and fattening, and we were ready to make our traditional favorites:  Scandinavian almond bars, double dip chocolate bon bons, and Amish sugar cookies to decorate. 

I handed my mom an envelope, which included a Snapfish picture card of the kids and my annual Christmas letter.  She read the letter and chuckled here and there at my comments.  You see, I try to make my letters a real glimpse into our lives, and not pretend our lives are perfect (that would be pretending!)

The problem came when Grace asked my mom to read the letter aloud.  As she began to read in her gentle voice, I instantly panicked.  I knew there was a certain line in there that would offend Gracie's tender little heart, even if it was true.  So I whispered into my mom's ear to skip that line, which she did.  Gracie, however, was on to me. 

About 5 minutes after we put the letter away, she came up to me and earnestly asked to read the letter.  My heart fell.  I knew this was not going to go well, but that I had to honor her request.   I gave her the letter, she read the telltale line, and then she hurried up the stairs in tears.  I followed her, feeling terrible.  All kinds of hurt tumbled from her mouth.  "How could you, Mom?"  I really didn't have a good answer.  I knew she wouldn't understand if I explained, "I was trying to be real, to encourage others with our foibles.  See, I put funny stuff about myself, too." 

I just said, "I'm sorry, Grace.  You're right, it wasn't nice.  I will change it.  I will tear open every sealed and stamped envelope, and replace the letter." 

She reluctantly accepted my offer.  I knew she didn't want to miss the afternoon of baking to sulk.  She taught me how careless I can be with my words, and that I have to remember she is not quite at the age where she can laugh at her own weaknesses. 

There are so many warnings in the Bible about bridling our tongue.  Today, I choose this one to tuck in my mouth:

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!  Psalm 141:3

I continue to struggle with how to use my voice to encourage and tell stories about my life that are real and true, while still honoring those in my family.  Perhaps today, you can learn from one of my many mistakes.