This piece is part of a thankful series that focuses on the importance of thanking the people in our lives God uses to bless, pray, give and serve.

I feel so grateful for friends on this journey of life who have some beautiful scars. Not those they went seeking in adventure, but just through the jagged edges of life and loss they have gained a heart of wisdom and compassion rather than bitterness and self preservation. Those who have learned well, and choose to keep their hearts open and heal, even when that's the harder road. I love that they did not gain wisdom from doing everything perfect, but because they learned how to thrive and find joy IN the pain, and THROUGH the storms, because they know how to authentically and humbly go to The only One who gives out that defiant joy. Those friends who do justly, love mercy, and walk so humbly with their Jesus that others find safety and hope in their authentic stories. I am thankful, and have grown because of each of them. So today, thank you friend. Your scars are the most beautiful to me.

Original mixed media watercolor on 140lb Canson watercolor paper with imitation gold leaf applied. Unframed

size 8×10”