The Daily Ricky

April 21

I remember when I was 14, just before I got saved. We were living in another town, right beside the 24 hour gas station we owned. I can’t remember the reason why I got mad at my parents but, I’m sure it was alcohol related. Anyway, I decided I was going to run away. I was tired of all the junk we children had to put up with. I mean, arguments among two drunks, late Friday nights and never knowing if our parents were actually coming home or landed in jail.

As I write this, emotions from the past flood my soul. I thought the reason my parents were the way they were was because of me. I know now it was them, choices they made, it had nothing to do with me or my siblings, But, then I did not know that.

Before I go on with this story, let me tell you about my loving German Shepherd, Suzie. She and I were always together. I got her when she was only a pup.

My Mom was at work and my Dad was at the station. So I packed a small bag and took off. I had gone about a 2/3 of a mile and I turned around. There was my Suzie wagging her tail. I threw things at her, hollered at her, and even kicked her but, she would not leave.

I knew no one would pick up a little boy and a dog, finally I started back home. Instead going to our trailer, I slipped without being seen to the backroom of the station. It had a upstairs and that’s where I bedded down. When I woke up, it was 8 p.m.

My parents had called all my friends and finally the police. They swept the city but, no luck, because I was in hiding When I walked in front of the station, my brother grabbed me and slapped me at the same time. I told him what I had been doing and he said, I’m glad I’m not in your shoes.

I walked over to the trailer, the police car was there and my Mom and Dad. When my mother saw me, she first slapped me than hugged me so tight, I thought she was going to break my back!

My Dad was mad and glad at the same time. I told them why I had left and how Suzie had stopped me. We all cried and hugged and told each other we loved one another.

I know now, I should have told them how I felt first, I would have saved them a lot of heartache.

I believe in my heart that’s why we run from God, we have a breakdown of communication on our part. We get mad and go our own way. The thing is, He is still there waiting for us to return.

Lord bring us to the place of returning to your heart, heal all misunderstandings and hurts. Amen!!!!!!!!!!!


RL