Don't Tell Them I Dropped The Turkey

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only that which is helpful for building others up.

Ephesians 4:29

The first Thanksgiving we were married, we invited my husband’s parents to eat with us. It was probably a rash decision since I was still learning to cook, but we were young and optimistic. In preparation I studied cookbooks, planned the menu, and polished everything we owned.

On the big day I was up early to stuff the turkey and get it into the oven. By the time Mom and Dad arrived, the air was full of appetizing smells, and everything was going well. I seated my in-laws in the dining room to munch on carrot sticks while I went to get the main course.

My husband followed me into the kitchen. He arrived just in time to see the turkey slip from my grasp and land on the floor. We stared at each other in horror. Then our eyes returned to the bird, lying beautifully browned and undamaged on the linoleum.

My mind whirled through the limited options before I knelt and grabbed the turkey. As I stood up, I hissed at my husband, “Don’t tell them I dropped it.” He nodded agreement. We never told them.

In life everyone “drops the turkey” from time to time. Something happens that we are not proud of. We may have marital problems, develop an addiction, or lose a job.

When we hear about someone who is struggling, we should consider what Ephesians 4:29 says: Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only that which is helpful for building others up.

I think that means we are not to pass along bad, hurtful stuff  but instead use our mouths to speak positively.

So tomorrow, if you learn that I’ve been less than successful, failed to live up to my potential, or disappointed someone, pray for me. But please don’t tell I “dropped the turkey”.

Father, help us to be encouragers.

Carol