On yesterday, we were
shocked by the sudden passing away of Whitney Houston. I am still trying very hard to process it
all. I did not know Whitney Houston
personally, but there was still an impact on my life. Ironically, while I cannot recall the show I was
watching, but I remember her performing on a daytime television talk show that
came on right after the soap operas went off.
I was a child, but was in awe of this young woman whose voice commanded
the attention of all within range. She
graced the stage with such poise and confidence. She was not scantily clad,
there were no bells and whistles necessary to enhance her performance; she just
stood there and sang. She stood there in
the authority of her vocals and sang.
She stood there and the gift God blessed her with was on display and
none could deny its power. From that moment, I was a fan.
When the phone calls
and text messages started to pour in, I was in such a state of disbelief. I turned on the television and my computer
wanting to discover that this was a cruel hoax.
Even though it was confirmed, I still sat waiting for some announcement
that a mistake was made. I shared with a
friend that I know some will think me over spiritual, but I cannot but help but
to consider the forces that were warring for Whitney’s soul. This woman was
clearly anointed with that beautiful voice, but she grappled with the vices and
vicissitudes of life. Her songs touched many in ways that some sermons preached
from the pulpit have not, but those virulent things that oftentimes come along
with fame and fortune overtook her. From
the number of people (self included) who stopped what they were doing to
reflect on her life, it is apparent that she had an impact on many. Unfortunately some took this occasion to highlight
the negative/painful moments in her life.
I don’t deny that she had struggles, but she was still someone’s
daughter, mother, friend – she was still human.
The difference between Whitney and the rest of us is that her “stuff”
was lived out on a very public stage. We
are all giving the freedom of choice. However, we don’t really know until faced
with the challenge whether or not we will give in to the pressure and make the
choice that will leave us with regret.
I spent some time in
prayer and meditation with God asking what is it that I am I to take away from
this moment. I do believe there are some lessons we can learn. The first is obvious;
we must all number our days because time is indeed short. The second lesson is
that we must be vigilant about protecting and nurturing relationships
(including fostering a healthy relationship with our own selves). Where
reconciliation, restoration, healing and/or forgiveness need to take place let
it. The third lesson is we must be
grateful for and aware of the grace and mercy of God that covers us and keeps
us in the midst of our own struggles.
I pray that Whitney has
found the peace that she could not find in this world. I pray that God brings
comfort and healing to her mother (Cissy), her daughter (Bobbi Kristina) her
ex-husband (Bobby Brown). I can hear the
gasp of some now, but before we judge and assume let’s pray. We don’t know his personal grief, regret and pain;
we only see what is portrayed in the media. I pray for the host of other relatives,
friends and fans who are grieving. I
pray God extend both compassion and conviction upon those who would relish in
judgment and condemnation. Ms. Houston, no one will ever be able to say it better
than you, for you sang it best, but I (along with millions of adoring fans) will
always love you!!!
Abounding in Love and
Growing in Grace,
Veronica
