Daughters of Promise July/August 2014 | Page 8

Shambles overcoming shame I love old decrepit houses. They are so full of history and nostalgia; yet people often just leave them to waste away, and only the most beggarly would abide under such roofs. We look at these places and think, “What a shame!” But you know, if someone had taken the time long ago, there would still be life within those walls. Not too long ago I had to face up to the fact that I had made an utter fool of myself over a two and half year period. I chased after things that were never meant to be mine and it wasn’t a private thing either. I had to confront those closest to me with this painful misguidance. Though her response may sound harsh, the greatest comfort came from my mom. I told her “I feel like such a fool!” “Well,” she said “that’s just life; and sometimes we will make a fool of our self.” That was exactly what I needed to hear! I was encouraged to know that millions of other people have made ridiculous mistakes, have also made fools of themselves, and have had to bear the shame. By Samantha Trenkamp Photography by Rae Schrock -8- -9-