character hand-me-downs
Here at the farm, we live a life full of hand-me-downs.
Used clothing - We love vintage fashion.
Large furniture - Early attic is a way of life for us.
Old tools - From generations of men who did physical labor.
Right now, even the temporary kitchen sink is a hand-me-down.
Ronnie And One Of His Best Homegrown Garden Tomatoes
We love used things and the emotional value they bring. Many of our material possessions remind us of someone or someplace. Right now, I’m sure you can think of a few objects that remind you of a special person or moment in your life. These objects have their own stories just like Ronnie and his tomato.
Ronnie loves his garden. Each year, he puts the time and care into seeing it flourish. Last summer, I saw his garden thriving. It was full of tomatoes and okra. He loves watching plants grow and even had a plethora of “aloe babies” to give away. I’m looking at some on my windowsill at this moment that Ronnie handed-down to my daughter. Similar to furniture hand-me-downs or clothing hand-me-downs, these plant hand-me-downs are fun, but they aren’t the only hand-me-downs in our lives with lasting value. We can even get character hand-me-downs.
When we took this photo, I listened to Ronnie define his life and his character. Ronnie values his relationship with God, hard work, and his family. They are the heart of who he is. He has had his share of struggles, but yet still continues to work hard in everything he does knowing that God is honored. It reminds me of the plea in Psalm 90.
Relent, Lord! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children. May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hand for us - yes, establish the work of our hands. - Psalm 90:13-17 NIV
I don’t know if he has his grandpa’s green thumb, but Ronnie’s grandson got some of his “aloe babies”. He also got Ronnie’s character hand-me-down of faith, work, and family. Ronnie knows what he passed down to his son and grandson. He recognizes it in them. And if you ever meet Ronnie’s grandson, you’ll see his grandpa in him.
What character hand-me-down has been passed on to you? What are you passing on to your kids? I got a few straight from my mom. I am incredibly stubborn and forthright, but genuinely care for people. These are some of the same things I am passing on to my children.
Searching for wisdom and asking for grace,
Jody