The snakes are last

So, our beautiful Anna is quite the dreamer. She's also a giver. At the moment, this has created quite the conundrum. Over the past few months she has had it in her head that she is called to start a pet shop so that she can raise money for our Sunday School sponsor child named Tebogo. She has impressively figured out many little details and talks about them multiple times a day, every day. This morning, while heading for a garage sale, she was talking to herself about the animals that she would purchase and bring home for her shop. "Don't worry, the snakes are last mom," she piped up. She is absolutely convinced that this is not a dream for the future, this is a dream for RIGHT NOW.

The problem is her mommy and daddy are not pet lovers. In fact, her daddy pretty much despises all animals, pets or not. To make matters worse, we are living in the in-law quarters (aka finished basement) of my parents home. Not a good season of life to even own 1 pet, let alone an entire pet store. I have tried to no avail to persuade her to own another dream, one more adaptable to our family. I even suggested owning a candy shop, to which she replied, "yes, I can have a small candy store in my Pet Store Gift Shop."

How do I protect her spirit to give, perservere and fling herself whole heartedly at her dreams while at the same time helping her to understand that this dream is most likely not for now? She reminds me all too much of myself. How many times I have run and tried to pursue my own dreams when God is gently saying, "Now is not the time my daughter." Sometimes it takes me a while to get it.

My precious Anna,
I love your vivacious and innocent spirit. The take on life that anything is possible and nothing or no one can hold you back from your dreams. Someday God will fling the door wide open on some of your dreams, the dreams that are truly in Him, and you will run hand in hand with Him in full abandonment. Whether that day is tomorrow or 30 years from now, wait and draw near to your Heavenly Papa. Waiting patiently is fierce and not for the faint of heart, and some days it may take all that is in you. But, know that in the end it will be worth it. Our Papa is not a God who withholds, but a good God who holds us close. He gives good gifts to His children and in perfect timing. Continue to use the creativity that God has given you to bless others. Continue to dream and allow God to put His dreams in your heart. He will use you in mighty ways to do mighty things. Never buy into the lie that you are too young or too inexperienced. In your weakness God is strong, and in His strength you can do all things! Someday, maybe someday, you will own your own pet shop. If this is the case it will be for the glory of God and the blessing of others. And even though we are not pet people, your daddy and I will be there to help you and encourage you, however we can, snakes and all.
Love you little girl!
~ Momma