Be careful what you tolerate. You are teaching people how to treat you.

Several days back, I saw on social media the above quote posted by a great mom of two terrific young men. I had previously met Susan, but I got to know her through my kid and his Golden Eagles football team. “Be careful what you tolerate. You are teaching people how to treat you.” Oh my goodness if there’s ever been truth, this one convicted me a little!

When I noticed that today was her birthday, I decided that Susan deserved some love today, because you see, I was paying attention to her words and…what goes around, comes around!

Two years ago, my middle son, Drew, decided to take up the sport of football. He hadn’t played since I think his CYO team in the 5th grade. By this time, however, he was 6’5 high school senior and quite a bit sturdier. It was a fun fall for the Thiemes as Coach Tom Dilley and the football family at Guerin Catholic are just incredible. One of the reasons for this has to do with the culture that has been cultivated in the program itself and amongst the families participating.

For instance, as Drew and his teammates were warming up for their game at Broad Ripple High School, Tom and I parked our car on the street and decided to go grab a drink and a bite to eat nearby. It was just the two of us, and we sat at the bar. We were there maybe 5 minutes when the very congenial and warm Susan Albert tapped us on the shoulder and said, “Well, we see you’re wearing purple, and you’ve just GOT to join us!”

We proceeded to laugh and truly enjoy the start of our night with two families we didn’t really know, but because of Susan and her sunshine and hospitality, we felt like we’d been members of the Golden Eagle Football family for years! Susan was the living embodiment of Romans 15:7. “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” A little kindness goes a long way.

Do you know what I find utterly beautiful? The souls of folks like Susan who notice someone outside their circle of friends and welcome them inside. No one is a stranger with the very funny, outgoing, hard-working and big hearted Susan Albert. Also? The woman can cook, AND her boys are pretty solid human beings and talented academically and athletically. She’s clearly a truly loving mother, and they are blessed.

Thanks, Susan, for being such a rock star! How you treat others has made me aspire to the same! I hope those gorgeous guys of yours treat you like a QUEEN BEE today because that is absolutely what you deserve!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!