The Story of Inside Out

She has not acknowledged that I was the one who gave her the grain, the new wine and oil, who lavished on her the silver and gold – which they used for Baal. Hosea 2:8

Once upon a time, a man became a father. He held his newborn daughter close and breathed in the wonder of her. When she turned two, he threw her into the air and exclaimed in delight. Was any child more perfect? At night, while his child of promise slept, he dreamed of the all the things he could give her that would make her happy. His list was long.

For many years, their love flourished. As she grew older and opened each gift he gave, she hugged him tightly in gratitude. Her heart was stirred that she could be fortunate enough to have such a father when so many lived like orphans.

At some point in time, things blurred. The girl was now a woman.  Receiving gifts was commonplace. She grew bored with her father though his passion for her had not changed. She grew indifferent toward him though every beat of his heart continued to whisper her name. She was not moved in the least that, even now, he stayed awake at night, watching her as she slept, dreaming of yet more gifts to give her.

·    The father built his daughter a beautiful castle. She walked in the front door and was immediately dazzled by its glitter. She dreamed of all the ways she could decorate it, sell it, and buy a bigger one.

·    One day when she awoke, sparkling jewels glistened on her fingers. She was enamored with the size of them, the value of them, and went out straightway to get them appraised. She kissed the rings; a symbol of wealth, not affection.

·    He filled her life with friends who loved her. When she discovered that they also desired to give her gifts, she was intoxicated with the possibilities. She invited them to live with her in her castle. They indulged her in return. What a perfect arrangement.

It was a sad day when the woman asked her father to move out. She had everything she wanted. She no longer needed him. The father lived nearby and watched her from a distance. He would wait for her. He would never give up hope that her heart would want him again.

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When men have gone so far as to talk as though their idols have come to life, it is time that someone broke them.   William Shakespeare