When I was a little girl I hated to go to bed at night. My parents would eventually win the tug of war and off I would go to my room withtwo adult bodyguards close to my side — my parents. After my lights were turned off and the door closed I would jump up on my mattress and it became my stage. I liked to flip my hairbrush upside down and use it as my microphone. My favorite fantasy each night was to travel around the world with Bob Hope encouraging the troops.
A few years ago, I had the joy of seeing my dreams become reality when I least expected it. I had been the closing keynote speaker for a conference. After speaking, I went to my product table to sign books. Suddenly my friend, Eileen, came by and swiftly took me by the arm, saying with urgency, “Quick! You are coming with me”— and off we went down the beautiful corridor of the hotel. Puzzled, I asked, “Where are we going?” to which she replied, “You are going to speak to some soldiers at the restaurant. They are being shipped out to Iraq tonight .”
Wondering if I even had permission for such an assignment, I followed her to the restaurant where the room was filled with soldiers. Eileen escorted me to the middle of the room, cleared her throat and said, “This is my friend, Gail McWilliams, and she has something to say.” All listened as I encouraged them. Laying my hand on the nearest shoulder of a soldier seated with his buddies, I began to ask some questions. Immediately, I not only had their attention but their hearts as well. I told them of my childhood fantasy and explained that they were my first official troops to encourage. I stated that I was a soldier on a battlefield of another kind, having lost my eyesight giving life to our children. I told them I understood the value of life. I thanked them for willingly giving theirs to serve our interests and protect our freedom. Then I asked if I could pray for them.
Taking their hats off, they bowed in prayer as I asked God to keep them safe give them discernment, wisdom and courage.
When I finished I saluted the whole room saying, “From where I stand, I see generals all around this room. Come home safely.” What appeared to be an unscheduled surprise ended up being something I had practiced for all my life – encouraging the troops and traveling with hope.
What have YOU been practicing all your life?
When you choose to look past the horizon… the sky is the limit!