I love me with my crown off!

A while back my daughter said something to me that really made me think. Of course, she had no ulterior motives, no deep motivation behind her words, just the simple truth—her life under a seven-year-old’s constant narration. These moments come from time to time with both my children, but this particular statement found a way to stick with me.

She had dressed the part in a ballerina outfit complete with matching tiara. And while gazing at her reflection in the mirror, she turned to me and said, “You know mommy, I love me with my crown on. I love me with my crown off.” I giggled with her and gave her a hug. Only later did I have time to think about those simple words.

Besides the obvious takeaway of self-confidence and contentment, today I’m pondering a different thought. How often at various times in our lives God calls us to wear different crowns, and more importantly—no crown at all. Frequently, the very recognition we crave or the job we think we want isn’t a part of God’s plan or his perfect timing. And if not, how do we love ourselves as His child with our crown off?

Many times I feel I’m waiting for my prayers to be answered, my hopes to be realized. But with patience, I’m learning God wants so much more for me. He wants to build my character and in the process, to learn to trust Him.

Isaiah 40:31  But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

How much greater our strength will be in the Lord if we learn contentment while waiting for our chance to wear the crown, however small or large that crown should be. And, take heart, God promises so much more:

Psalm 37:4  Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Romans 8:28  And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

So as I patiently wait for the Lord’s perfect path, I hope to look each morning in the mirror and say, “Thank you God for the woman you made me and the plan you have for my life. Use me as you wish.” Or as my daughter would say, “God, I love me with my crown off.”

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