Working with someone who tries to look at people the way God does, is truly a blessing.
I have this awesome part-time job at a dress shop downtown. I happened to walk in there at the end of the summer looking for a homecoming dress for my daughter and I instantly loved it. The owner, Frances, is what I would describe as bubbly times ten. She met us at the door and welcomed us. She then went on to say that the store had a platform of girls and self-esteem and they stood strong on anti-bullying. She also said that no one who walks through her doors is allowed to speak negatively about themselves and if she heard negative words, whoever said them would be placed in a time out until they could say three positive things about themselves.
I loved her instantly and I loved her boutique. She had formal wear of all kinds, homecoming, prom, ladies wear, bridal gowns and tuxedos. She had brand new items and consignment items as well as vintage dresses. It was such a fun and uplifting place, I hated to leave. My daughter found a dress. I friended Frances on Facebook.
I did a little sewing for her because that’s all I know how to do and then I started working in the store when she needed the help. Watching her work has been amazing. I think she truly sees women through the eyes of God. She can pick out something beautiful in every woman or girl who walks through the door and she points it out. Most ladies leave with a pep in their step and holding their head a little higher than when they arrived.
Frances is a strong Christian. I knew it when I met her, long before we discussed it. I could see Jesus in the way she treats people. She seems to innately seek out the good in people and try to be a blessing to them. She in turn, gets blessed by them. It’s a beautiful cycle to watch.
Last week when I was in the store, a bride came in. She was discouraged. She was on a budget and had been unable to find anything. She was self-conscious about her weight. She wasn’t a size 6, but since the average size of an American woman is 14, she shouldn’t have been. Frances got to work and it wasn’t long until our bride was glowing. We all knew the moment that she put on the perfect gown. She was stunning.
Her gorgeous blue eyes danced with joy. She didn’t want to take it off. So we chatted a while and took some pictures with her in her dress as Frances picked out the perfect dress for her mama to wear. She shared with me some pictures of her wedding decorations. Then she floored me.
They are doing their wedding reception in a rustic barn. But, the ceremony is going to be in front of a simple wooden cross. I was so moved I got teary. I told her if she and her soon to be hubby will keep God in the center of their marriage, they will always be happy and their marriage will be blessed. Then she got teary as she told me she thought she would never get married because whenever she tried talking to someone she was dating about God, they weren’t interested and she wasn’t budging on her faith.
Then, God sent her this man. He loves God too. I was thrilled for this stranger who I felt had become my friend. When she and her mom left the shop, they were two beautiful women with two beautiful dresses and I felt blessed beyond words. I think they did too.
Watching for God in the people and the world around me never fails to amaze me and bless me. Care to join me?
Have an awesome day!
Wendy 🙂