Monday, January 23, 2012

I Hate Her

I've known her-or at least about her for a long time.

In my early 20's I sat in a conference and heard her tales of perfection.

I'd grown resentful and had enough of this perfect women.

I'd heard these stories before, really  my whole life in fact-weekends in high school devoted to getting to know her- and I decided then and there, that although is was probably wrong-

 I hated her.

So, I tried to put her out of my mind.

Easier said than done.

In my circles she's everywhere and I just couldn't avoid her.

So, when she entered the room or conversation, I'd roll my eyes and try to laugh her off.
I did not enjoy the comparison between her and I and I just didn't want to hear it anymore.

Maybe you've meet her before, she goes by many names, but is most commonly referred to as the
Proverbs 31 woman.

It was in my 30's when I came to the startling conclusion that perhaps my resentment toward her was misplaced.
Perhaps I really resented the misrepresentation of her.

So, scary as it's been I've wadded back in to get to know her.

This image of a meek and speak only when spoken to woman- is so misguided.
Or, that she never left her home to work.

She is strong, confidant  and industrious -in her home and outside.
She is well spoken and kind.
She is well dressed (I always had the image of no make up and denim skirt to her knees)
She makes business decisions.
She's creative.
She laughs.

Maybe you've grown to hate her too-or the picture of her that can be falsely presented or falsely assumed.

In my own life, I've found that once I let go of the resentment and read the Word with fresh eyes and open heart, I could see myself-or a picture of where I could see myself fitting in.

Remember, you are the woman God created. Your talents. Your voice. Your drive and spirit.
He created those unique to you gifts for a reason.
He wants you and me, to use those gifts to glorify Him.
Not to discard them to fit into some ill perceived mold.

So, if you were wondering, No I don't hate her anymore.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

WOW! I've never heard anybody actually say that out loud before.

I know in my own life I've gotten tired of hearing about her, because it always seemed that I could never live up the expectation that she set up for us all.

Thanks for reminding me I'm not supposed to be anything other than what God created me to be.

Angie said...

Well, because I believe every word in the Bible is inspired by God, I do realize how my behavior wasn't appropriate -or at least my attitude. Of course, my attitude wasn't so much at the Proverbs 31 lady but at how she was being taught to me and how I perceived that meant I should behave.
Freedom in Christ is a beautiful thing.

Miss Hillbilly said...

Funny how we interpret how our mind wants us too. I've always loved that passage and used it to remind myself to not feel guilty about spending time being creative (cuz I battle that guilt daily).

Angie said...

Satan definitely knows where to get us where I weakness are!

I always thought I shouldn't be expressing my opinions and had to be a wall flower(things I'm not good at) . ..makes you useless when you aren't using the gifts God gave you!

And you are SO creative-I'm glad you use your gifts to bless others!

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