Metaphors, Schmetaphors

“What is REAL?" asked the Velveteen Rabbit one day... "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"

"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When [someone] loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real."

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."

"I suppose you are real?" said the Rabbit. And then he wished he had not said it, for he thought the Skin Horse might be sensitive.

But the Skin Horse only smiled.

I really do promise not to beat this Velveteen Rabbit metaphor to death, BUT... please do allow me to expand in just one post what I'm really talking about here.  Let's try reading this again, but being a bit more direct about what we're doing here as the Shabby {Chic} Mamas. 

"What is REAL?" asked a Shabby Mama one day.... "Does it mean never losing my temper and talking about my life using only upbeat words like fulfilling, rewarding, perfect, and cherishing every moment?" 

"Real isn't pretending everything on the inside is perfect and whole," said Jesus.  "It's a thing that happens to you.  When you allow Me to love you, truly love you, for a long, long time, not just for yourself and your needs, but even to love Me back, then you become Real." 

"Is it scary?" asked the Shabby Mama. 

"Always," said Jesus, in a way that somehow made all her fear dissipate.  "When you are Real, I will tread upon areas of your heart that need Me, and that is scary and new.  But I am always right there with you." 

"I suppose You are Real?" said the Shabby Mama.  And then she wished she had not said it, for she thought He might think she was silly, or didn't know Him at all.  But Jesus only smiled and said, "I'm about as Real as it gets."