Love, Forgiveness and the Armor of God Story Blog-February

Another month closer. Nova was getting exited and had so many ideas for this special time alone with her niece. She had the best spot for her to stay. Her basement. The basement had a full finished bathroom and Rose and her husband could have their privacy. At least that how Nova would sell it to Rose. Nova had her computer in the guest bedroom and that was her place to spend her quiet time, anytime of the night or day. She didn’t want to move the computer into her work room. Rose didn’t need that room, she could just stay in the basement. That would do her just fine. But Nova was concerned about one thing, Roses husband. Why did he have to come anyway? He’ll just mess things up. How could Nova get Rose alone if her husband was always there? Nova had to think of something that would keep him busy. There was enough around the house for him to do, that’s for sure. But that wouldn’t give Nova and Rose time alone. Unless, she had Rose take her shopping. Or better, send her husband out for errands. Nova had to play it cool. She knew from the last experience with Rose, years before, that one wrong word could send the whole plan into oblivion. Rose was a sensitive type that would blow the most simplistic situation into a full ticking disaster that would blow up in her face. She didn’t want to take that chance. No, Nova would take it slowly and keep her thoughts to herself this time around. But just wait, when she had Rose to herself with nowhere to go, yes, then Nova would get what she wanted, her personal effigy. 

Nova was quite happier these days. The one thing that made her days more manageable was the more frequent calls from Rose. They were having actual pleasant conversations, something Nova never remembered ever having before. But Nova knew it was because she was biting her tongue and keeping her private thoughts and plans to herself. She knew what Rose wanted to hear. She knew that Rose was a sucker for relationships, so she lured her with promises of board games, picnics, and fun activities. But, Nova had no intention of following though with any of those. Once she had Roses full attention and control, she would set her straight. Yes, Nova couldn’t wait to show Rose that her life was a mess and that she needed Nova to be happy. Nova couldn’t wait to show Rose that she, Nova, knew what was best for Rose. Maybe, if handled the right way, Nova could convince Rose to get rid, once for all, her husband. After all, they’ve been together long enough that Nova shouldn’t have a hard time turning Rose against her marriage partner, this time around. 

Rose was getting excited for her visit with Nova. Things were going so much better than expected. They were talking over the phone more often now, and the conversations were actually good. Rose was feeling more comfortable with her phone conversations and the future visit. But, Rose knew better than to let her guard down. She had gone down this path before only to be blind sided. So she kept in Gods Word daily, and prayed for His direction and grace. 

Prior to the most recent conversation with Nova, Rose was apprehensive at the least. Rose had heard that Nova was wanting them to stay in her basement. Normally that wouldn’t be a problem, but the last time Rose and her husband came over to help Nova, years ago, the basement was full of old dirty junk along with cat waste, vomit and fur balls. Nova was the type of person that didn’t recognize nor accept help unless she specifically wanted and asked for it, or actually, expected it. Nova was insulted and in denial that the basement was a mess. Yet, she says it’s a good place for us to stay. So, Rose’s recent call to her was to address the sleeping arrangements. The phone call actually went very well. Nova seemed to accept the suggestion of Rose’s, to temporarily move her computer into her work room. Although, Nova did not verbally agree that the sleeping arrangements would be the spare bedroom instead of the basement, she did not argue the fact. Rose assured Nova that she would have everything put back in the spare bedroom the way Nova had it, before Rose left. Nova seemed satisfied with that. After Rose got off the phone, she let out a loud sigh of relief. Prayer was working, that was true. Rose knew though, that the situation could change at any moment and knew she needed to be prepared. Rose was looking forward to spending time playing games and going on picnics and other activities while her and her husband were there. Nova lived by herself, and was getting old, so there were many projects they were hoping to be able to help her with. But, Rose would play it by ear. The last time she was planning to come for a visit, Rose made the mistake of planning all the help and activities. She based these on her conversations with Nova, what Nova voiced as concerns. But it backfired. Nova accused Rose of being controlling and only thinking about herself. Nova said she didn’t want to make any plans and only wanted Rose there to visit. Which would’ve been ok, accept that all the other plans that Rose and her husband made to spend with other family and friends upset Nova. These upset Nova to the point that she refused to do anything with Rose unless they cancelled their plans with the other family and friends. Novas response was that she didn’t get enough time, so she chose no time. Rose still attempted to visit and include Nova, however she didn’t force the issue. It was too mentally exhausting. These were some of the mind wars Rose was use to as a young child and adult. She was not strong enough to handle, nor did she even want to try. 

Time was moving quickly, and Rose needed to step up the prayers and time with God. Not only for her and her husband, but for Nova as well. 

A quote Rose had heard and repeats to herself on a regular bases. The quote is, “Always speak in grace-better than they deserve .”