Kindred Spirits, I have a special treat for you today! The following is a guest post from my friend Carrie Brownell of A Fine Quotation. Carrie is a literary friend, a Kindred Spirit, a Reep (which you’ll soon learn about), and an incredible artist. Click HERE to see her beautiful literary artwork! Read on for an encouragement from Carrie that’s sure to nourish the soul! -Rachel
When my friends and I were younger, we wanted to celebrate our friendship (and still do) with old-fashioned words. These friends suit this quote from my favorite little loyal warrior from The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis:
If you are a foe we do not fear you, and if you are a friend your enemies shall be taught the fear of us.
-Reepicheep, a mighty warrior mouse from Narnia
A True Reep
Do you wonder if your friendship with another is secure? If they’ll stick around if hard times come your way? If they’ll be family to you when you need them to be? Are they Reeps?
God has seen fit to gift me with a small handful of them. You really only need one, but I have a few — the sort that will draw swords with me and for me when I am not up for the battle all by myself. These are the sort that slap you in the face and kindly hiss instructions to you when you need it most.
Reep is not a Job’s Comforter. He tells it like it is and every word breathes hope.
When his companions were at their darkest, lowest moments he leaned over the sides of their ships and hollered at unknown enemies that there was a battle waiting if one was wanted. He filled his friends with courage and he never ran away.
Find a Reep, Be a Reep
Look for the Reeps. If you don’t have a friend like this, keep looking because they do exist. When you find them, keep them and be a Reep yourself. When their battle rages, draw your sword and let them know you aren’t running. They’ll need you, just as you’ll need them.
Reep is my favorite Narnian and the one I most aspire to be like. He looks almost insignificant at first glance, but his heart beats for adventure. He fears no man and he’s compassionate when others stumble. He is a quoter of poetry and promises. He defends truth and honor at all costs and his greatest joy is doing all of the above in a company of like-minded Narnians.
I want to be him and I’m glad to have friends that are him.
Who is a Reep to you? Do you have one, or are you still looking?
By Carrie Brownell, A Fine Quotation
To learn more about Carrie’s work or to check out her literary art shop, you can visit her online at www.afinequotation.com or on Instagram @afinequotation.
I pray this article encourages your hearts today, Kindred Spirits! It certainly was heartening for me. Remember to keep your Reeps close, keep looking for others, and try to be one yourself!
Grace and peace,
Rachel
Leave a Reply