The Voice

"I don't like you. I really don't like you. I don't like how you look. I don't like how you act. I don't like what you wear. I don't like your hair. I don't like what you eat. I don't like who you are," said The Voice. The little girl sat in the corner, sobbing, covering her ears with her hands to shut out The Voice. But it didn't help. She sobbed all the louder, the weeping turning to uncontrollable, gut-wrenching wailing! 

"Why? Why don't you like me?" she asked. "You are always trying to get attention, think you are better than others, putting other people down, being nosy, asking questions and doing silly things," said The Voice. "You shirk your responsibility, you don't volunteer enough and you like to play and have fun instead of praying and reading your Bible," continued The Voice. The sobbing only got louder. Is this true? Whose voice is it? thought Little Girl.

After a time, all grew quiet, and she dared to lift her head. In the distance she saw a soft, white figure gliding towards her. There was a smile on her face and she came and sat down beside Little Girl and drew her into her lap. Little Girl felt a peace and warmth and comfort flow through her. And love, wrapping around. And then she heard The Voice, but this time it was soft and gentle and kind. "I love you Baby Girl. I'm so proud of you! You are doing such a good job! Anyone would be proud to have you for a friend! You are trustworthy, kind, welcoming, refreshing, peaceful & inspiring. You know what love is and you go after it with all your heart. I see your desires and they are good!"

"All I wanted," sobbed Little Girl, "was to be loved. That's all I ever wanted."

"I'm sooo sorry," said The Voice, "I'm so sorry I didn't know how to love you, but I'm learning now."

Little Girl jumped up and gave The Voice a big, bear hug! She smiled to herself and thought, That Voice was mine all along. How different it feels when The Voice is gentle and kind instead of harsh and critical. I'm so glad we're friends at last!