Although I had read Steel
Magnolias, I had never seen the entire movie, nor did I know it was based
on a true story. It didn’t take me long to catch up when my sister in law Vicki
and I visited Natchitoches. Vicki and I could be rightfully accused of having a
good time anywhere we go. Our latest adventure,
relaxing for three days in the oldest city in Louisiana, was a first
time visit I hope becomes annual.
We stayed at the Steel
Magnolia house, or M’Lynn’s house in the movie. I slept in Shelby’s room which
really is pink, her signature color, and perfectly matches the pink tub in the
adjacent bathroom. The home was built in 1840 and used as a hospital during the
Civil War. It was once visited by Ulysses S. Grant and much later by Julia
Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Dolly Parton, and
Daryl Hannah while filming the movie bearing its present name. Although beautiful,
its appeal is the history and people whose shadows once darkened the French
doors of the stately home.
During the tour, which
blended historical facts, movie trivia, and heartfelt facts about the family on
whom the film was based, I began to think, What
would a tour of my house be like? I laughed to myself as I thought of
having to describe the various people who we’ve had the pleasure of
entertaining. The children’s slumber parties, bridal and baby showers, crawfish
boils, Bible studies, birthday celebrations, and impromptu gatherings over
lemon pie which all blend to write our family’s history. Then I thought, What would a tour of my heart be like?
I’d like to say that my
heart has never entertained wrong ideas or harbored negative attitudes. I’d
love to say ill feelings towards others have never visited, much less found a
place to rest there. However, all I can truthfully say is my prayer is much
like that of David’s when he wrote, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test
me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and
lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23,24)
I hope to always
respond to God as He is faithful to illuminate any dark areas and challenges me
to change. May He always point out a wall I need to break down, regardless of
where it is and how long ago it was built, so that I remain open to His plan
for my future. And may He always show me how to strengthen and build up any
weak areas to be sure the foundation remains strong.
On a tour of our hearts,
may peace, wisdom, and faith found to be permanent residents.
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