The day had been filled with malls, outlets, and shopping centers…well; at least Monieca and Jacqueline had shopped. I spent most of the day entertaining Liam any way I could. As dinner approached we were all weary and hungry.

We had planned to meet some friends from KY vacationing at the beach for dinner at Abuelous, a Mexican restaurant in front of the Coastal Grand Mall. As we exited Hwy 17 into the mall parking lot, Liam declared to everyone in the van, “No mall!”

Even though he’s only three, he’s already learning that having women in our lives sometimes involves activities that may not be among our favorites.

I’m sure if given the opportunity, Monieca and Jacqueline would remind me there are things they do for the men in their lives that they don’t actually “love” doing. But isn’t that what love does?

Like the Bible says, “love doesn’t seek its own.” Love means there are moments when we put the needs and wants of those we love ahead of our particular likes and dislikes. Those who learn this lesson early tend to enjoy lasting and happy relationships, while those who don’t…don’t.

By the way…Liam and I survived the day and enjoyed a good meal.

Pastor Steve Hogg