I know what you’re thinking, “Ellie, what in the world does losing your phone at a department store have to do with Jesus?” Well, my friend, everything is not what it seems. This article is no different. If that title got your attention, then I succeeded, and that is a win in my book!

There I was, ready to hit the gym as any healthy person interested in their well-being does. I had everything in my belt bag prepared – my keys, phone, Airpod headphones, tampons, and water bottle in hand. As soon as I park, I reach for the wireless headphones that I charged all night, and nothing. There was no light or Bluetooth connection. This was a travesty. How is a woman supposed to survive at the gym in the 21st century without headphones? Listen to the already playing radio? Yeah, right…

I thought, never fear, my gym is located in quite the exciting strip mall with an array of shops, one being Marshall’s. I made the mistake of thinking an AirPod case would be a replacement charger for the earbuds, which is invalid. However, I didn’t realize that at this point in the story.

I confidently marched up to Marshall’s and immediately spotted phone cases, so headphone cases should be nearby, right? Naturally, I didn’t see them, so I headed to the opposite end of the store to begin my search. I find all sorts of fun things, but alas, no AirPod cases. I feel my frustration begin to grow as my chest tightens, and it gets harder to breathe. Why can’t I find these dang Airpod cases? I know they must have them every department store of the like does (TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack, etc.). My anger continued to build, and then I found this quote that smacked me right in my face “He restores my soul.” It is simple but also to the point. It is coincidentally part of my favorite passage of the Bible, called Psalm 23. It is traditionally read at funerals or life celebrations. The entirety reads:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

It made me think how silly it was to be so impatient and frustrated by this situation. Instead, I picked up that sign and a few others that resonated with me and headed to the checkout. Lo and behold, guess what I found – the AirPod cases. They are just covers and not new charging cases. While slightly disappointed, I continue to pick one I like. It’s pink and silicone in case you were wondering! 🙂

A few minutes later, I lost my phone. I retraced my steps around the Marshall’s store and still did not find it. A bit dejected, I leave Marshall’s a number to call and return home. However, having the freedom away from it all was really nice. I enjoyed the scenery outside, which, sadly, I never do. I would not have reacted similarly if I had not seen that sign. Instead, I may have let the situation ruin my day.

This is not me pushing my beliefs on you; everyone should believe in what resonates most with them. Religion is a lot of variations of the same or similar message and moralities to live by. The bottom line is that some higher power wants us to treat each other how we would want to be treated. It is about understanding that every one of us is human, uniting us all. Do we have differences? Of course, that is indeed what helps us grow and gain perspective. If we never challenged our thoughts, we would never grow. Later on, Marshall’s called and let me know they found my phone. Therefore, my mini vacation had to come to an end.

God, the universe, or whatever higher power you believe in works in mysterious ways. So next time you have the choice to see a situation in a positive or negative light, take the extra step to see it positively. It will change your entire perception of the day. ❤