image vs. reality

I got together with some friends that I haven't talked to in awhile, we got caught up and got to talking and my one friend apologized for being so heavy....I stopped her and thanked her for being so real.  It is so refreshing to have real conversation. I can't tell you how awesome it is to hear other people's hearts, and experiences with life.  Not only is it a reminder of how much I despise fakeness and idle chatter but, it is such a faith builder.  Nothing like a personal encounter with truth to get your blood pumping and your heart feeling.  I know a lot of times people are polite by just saying the "good" stuff, but lets be honest with ourselves...does everyone really have a picture perfect life, marriage, relationships...NO!!  I walked away from our coffee night feeling refreshed, encouraged and challenged. I know that if God can part seas, heal sick, and raise the dead, than He is perfectly capable of restoring friendships, marriages, and family ties. If I didn't believe that then why bother believing in it at all.  I was totally reminded that we as individuals cannot live in peace or freedom until we accept that He can gives that very thing.  It seems so simple yet all around me are broken families, long lost friends, marriages on the outs, and mom pretending that they've got it all together.  Who are we kidding??  Why is it so hard to accept that we can't do it all?  My heart goes out to those who think they can handle it themselves... I used to think that I could handle it all by myself until just about everything blew up in my face, literally...Now, I am just trying to make it work, trying to live by His understanding not my own, trying to be real.  I am so human its not funny, i mess up, say the wrong thing, react unlovingingly, yep all of it, i am aware and I am trying to figure out how Jesus did it all without pulling a nutty. I won't give up... and on that note, once again I am challenged to be less of what I think I should be and more of what He wants me to become.  I know that life will throw a lot more crazy turns my way, but I have to believe that someone is rooting for me; otherwise what is the point.  to all my girls (you know who you are) thanks for always keeping it real... even when it is heavy.  love you mean it.  I hope that God gives everyone someone in their life that is always real and honest about life... it is such a blessing and it truly makes life so much better, ya know.  Even though the image of what we want people to see is better and more pleasing, and much easier to maintain...how about just letting that go and really, really being true to who we are, and what we are.  Something to think about????