The office. The least appropriate place to argue with a loved one over the phone. But yesterday, just across the hall from my office, "all hell broke loose." I tried to ignore the young woman; knee-deep in verbal combat with her boyfriend. But when he threatened to end their relationship (I know this because she repeated most of what he said) apparently it summoned the need for heavy artillery. F-Bombs. When they continued to echo across the hall, I knew it was time to politely ask that she move her conversation to a more private place. I knew this because my client was scheduled to arrive in fifteen minutes. I knew this because I've been this girl. Emotive, with little regard for my surroundings.

This unexpected glimpse into my past stirred feelings of compassion. It's heartbreaking if you think about it. She's not a rude person by nature. She's just a girl who doesn't know her value in Christ. Really know her value. And until she does, arguments with boyfriends will most likely ruin her day and potentially create conflict in the work place. Well, such was the case for me.

Looking back, I can't recall the day I noticed I'd officially been set free from this relational dynamic. What I do remember is that it didn't happen over night. And that I didn't give up. To the best of my ability, I kept my focus on God, who faithfully paved the way for my progression and most importantly, my redemption.

When I left the office, the young woman was sitting outside. Shoes off. Phone in hand. Sad eyes.

"I'm sorry for getting so loud. I didn't realize you could hear me."

"No worries. It happens. You okay?"

"Yeah, thanks."

As I drove away, I prayed for her. Then I prayed again. This time for all the girls who are heartbroken, emotive, and unaware of how truly treasured they are in the eyes of the Father. I asked Him, in the name of Jesus, to make the crooked places straight for His daughters. And then I thanked Him for my freedom.

Have you been this girl? If you could say anything or write anything to God about a time you lost control AND awareness of your surroundings all at the same time, what would you say? Say it. Let Him gather the fragments of your heart and love you back together again.