Expert Fluff and Fold

Expert Fluff and Fold . . . These words are posted on a sign in front of a dry cleaning business I drive by a couple of times a week. I know I've read it many times but today as I read it a conversation formed in my mind.

"Are you this kind of person?"

"What?"

"Are you an 'Expert Fluff and Fold' kind of person?"

"What kind of person is that?"

Then it hit me, so many times we use our words and actions to only fluff those around us. We pour out shallow compliments or pleasantries that splash on the surface of another's soul. After the fluff comes the fold -- when we take the things they are going through, fold them, and place them neatly on a shelf out of our way.

We seem to be so absorbed in our own lives we sometimes don't want to take time to listen, help, or encourage others. So, when someone in need crosses our path, we do the easy thing -- fluff and fold.

Take time to notice . . .

has God placed someone in your life that you need to listen, help, or encourage? 

Better yet . . .

take a look into the closet of your heart and see what (or who) you may have folded and

placed neatly on a shelf out of the way. 

"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up" (Eccl. 4:9,10 NKJV).

pictures courtesy of morguefile.com