The Stranger | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: The Stranger | Previous Challenge Entry
By Debra Brand
04/22/05
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The weather had been glorious. The sun cast late fall rays upon the golden brown grasses in the field. Falling to the ground as if in tune to a symphony, the last of the leaves drifted.

Inside the house, the television announcer replayed the last football carry. A fire burned on the hearth. Basking in the radiant glow, a kitten snuggled in her basket. The room was heavy not only with full bellies, but with the contentment of a pleasant family get together.

At the cleared dining room table, the children excitedly played a board game. Occasional shrieks of laughter broke through the concentration of the men watching the Cowboys and Eagles.

The women of the family escaped to the living room, where they could rest their feet and hands from the preparation of such a big meal. Lounging on the floor and furniture, they casually talked about the challenges in their lives.

One of the teens was talking about a new beau. Another was learning to drive. The sisters were comparing notes on toddler training and the moms sighed contentedly. All’s right with the world when your family is around you.

What no one noticed was the face in the window. He eagerly looked in to see what was taking place. He watched their faces; some excited, some reflective and one anxious when no one else was watching. Sighing heavily, he turned away.

He moved to the other side of the house to see in there, too. His eyes lit up watching the children compete. Their giggles made his mouth widen into a grin. He’d love to stay there and watch but he moved on.

Peering into the family room, he saw the men taking it easy. He knew they worked hard all week at the farm and soon evening chores would call. His heart longed to join them in that room. To relax with them, even watch the game and enjoy the fire would be his heart’s desire.

How wonderful it is to be with those who love you! You may not always agree with each other, but the bond is so strong it can withstand a tempest. Love is such a burden carrier.

Through the falling night, the sounds in the barns come forth, sounds of more tender care given to helpless animals. More love is poured forth.

The face in the window still seeks, still searches for the fellowship of others. He even reaches for the doorknob to see if he could gain entrance. But his hand falls back, knowing it’s not their will but his. He wasn’t invited to Thanksgiving.

If they would only turn and see his reflection, they would know true love. A love that cures all their ills, mends all their brokenness, and gives rich meaning to life. This celebration would be so much more special to them and their family.

‘Look! There he stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through the lattice. My lover spoke and said to me, “Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me.’ Song of Songs 2:9b-10 (NIV)

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