7/31-10 No I'm not at a spa--- Since a spa is out of the question, I’m just planning to soak in my tub for awhile. I've decided to use the last of 2 of my “special” bottles of shampoo----you know those really good ones that the upscale hotels/resorts provide. I only have ½ bottle of each, so my first coat will be with Cobb Lane B&B’s (Birmingham) very light sudsing. “The Sea” fragrance of Hotel Del Coronado’s (San Diego) mini-shampoo gel will wrap up my fragrant “splurge.”
These will have a way of opening my mind to memories that will fill my head with good thoughts----thus pushing out the anxieties lurking in the corner. Cobb Lane was a great B&B that I shared with my T-Cup friends last summer between my surgeries and Grandaddy’s funeral---very timely. Hotel Del offers its spa toiletries---if you’ve ever been there, enough said. If not, GO. Go with a high recommendation from me and my "Las Amigas."
I’m saving 2 full mini-bottles for next week’s suds and soak---Lemongrass Sage from the Brown Palace (Denver) and “fresh & clean” from the Greenbrier (West Virginia's top spot for amenities)----because I’ll be back at work with a full family agenda to be juggled on the side as the newlyweds visit and Mommar has surgery.
Today’s Jesus Calling gave me permission to let “Calgon, take me away.” “When you feel flustered or frazzled…..events overwhelm……Slow down your pace of living for a time. Quiet your mind in My Presence.”
Headin’ to the tub to do just that---with a headful of fragrant lather to wash out the worries and take my mind back to Him.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Password Protection
7/30/10 None needed. Only one word and it’s available to all---JESUS. His name gives all the security that one needs and it lasts an eternity.
But I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. (II Timothy 1:12)
Thursday, July 29, 2010
FORGET IT!!!
7/29/10 I do. Lately I seem to forget lots--- especially if numbers are involved. This morning, I couldn’t even remember daughter, Molly’s phone # and it’s one of my “MFC.” (most frequently called) If I am dialing a number and get the prefix wrong it tends to start a brain storm of sorts and it only worsens as I try harder to recall the #. I seem to have a few mental blocks as well and confuse HHS # and Drenda’s # on a regular basis. I won’t even add passwords and pin numbers to the mix because they are impossible---6-8 characters are always required now and have to have letters as well as numbers.
At work old ones have to be changed on a regular basis for sake of security. Trust me, a hacker could get in to my account easier than I. Even when I have it written down I have to remember where I wrote it and where I stored that info----too many options for retrieval is maddening. I think my brain is encrypted and I need to break the code---or at least have a password that doesn’t require so many characters along with punctuation and other symbols. Instructions I’ve been given recommend using a password you can’t forget---“a strong mnemonic passphrase, easy to remember, without writing it down, but hard for others to guess.” Yea, right! I’d be the one having trouble guessing it.
So what’s with this forgetfulness.
Maybe I ought to quit trying to figure out what’s causing it and just learn to live with it. (Though hubby is the one who is really suffering---wearing himself out running interference and trying to give me clues. Sort of like “Charades” around here sometimes.)
“Crazy Ada’s” favorite words to rehash were, “Oh, just forget about it.” A conversation with her was like a stuck record---a “Groundhog Day” of sorts. But…….I’ve remembered them all these years. Now I plan to follow them----and "forget about forgetting," at least for now. Besides Jeremiah 33:3 is still in my memory bank, so I’ll just apply that.
I can forget everything else, but Him.
At work old ones have to be changed on a regular basis for sake of security. Trust me, a hacker could get in to my account easier than I. Even when I have it written down I have to remember where I wrote it and where I stored that info----too many options for retrieval is maddening. I think my brain is encrypted and I need to break the code---or at least have a password that doesn’t require so many characters along with punctuation and other symbols. Instructions I’ve been given recommend using a password you can’t forget---“a strong mnemonic passphrase, easy to remember, without writing it down, but hard for others to guess.” Yea, right! I’d be the one having trouble guessing it.
So what’s with this forgetfulness.
Maybe I ought to quit trying to figure out what’s causing it and just learn to live with it. (Though hubby is the one who is really suffering---wearing himself out running interference and trying to give me clues. Sort of like “Charades” around here sometimes.)
“Crazy Ada’s” favorite words to rehash were, “Oh, just forget about it.” A conversation with her was like a stuck record---a “Groundhog Day” of sorts. But…….I’ve remembered them all these years. Now I plan to follow them----and "forget about forgetting," at least for now. Besides Jeremiah 33:3 is still in my memory bank, so I’ll just apply that.
Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.
I can forget everything else, but Him.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Mama………….
7/28/10 ………..that’s all the name she went by when I was growing up. At least it’s what my family all called her, even Daddy, though she was his mother-in-law. Margaret Louise Hooper Davenport would have been 105 ten days ago. I know that because it was Sunday, July 18, and Molly was in the beach house researching her family tree at ancestory.com. She did “dig up” lots of interesting data. A 1930 census showed the ages of everyone in the “farm” household. Aunt Cora Mae Hooper, age 21, was living with them at the time. She even found a copy of my granddaddy’s signed WWI draft card. Dang Dang was 5 years older than she. They married when she was only 14. He was a tall, strapping corker and she was diminutive with a quiet, gentle spirit.
That info wasn’t on ancestory.com but I know it to be true. Compiled data can only give us so much information. That in itself is fascinating. But the real stories come from the hearts of those who know and remember their loved ones.
For sure, Mama was a loved one, especially by me. She was my spiritual mentor---though neither one of us had ever hear of that term. Nowadays it’s described as one mature Christian sharing his life with another in a one-on-one relational experience. The mentor invests, his God-given wisdom and resources of time and energy with the “mentoree” thus empowering him/her to align his life with Christ.
Our relationship wasn’t that formal but she shared much godly wisdom with me as she allowed me to “see” Christ in her, the hope of glory.
She lived Christ and found her joy in Him. I was just blessed to be alongside for all those years, especially during the summer when I got to spend a week at her house. I couldn’t wait to go to Mama’s---just to be with her. Mama might have been short in stature but she was the spiritual giant of my life.
For sure, Mama was a loved one, especially by me. She was my spiritual mentor---though neither one of us had ever hear of that term. Nowadays it’s described as one mature Christian sharing his life with another in a one-on-one relational experience. The mentor invests, his God-given wisdom and resources of time and energy with the “mentoree” thus empowering him/her to align his life with Christ.
Our relationship wasn’t that formal but she shared much godly wisdom with me as she allowed me to “see” Christ in her, the hope of glory.
She lived Christ and found her joy in Him. I was just blessed to be alongside for all those years, especially during the summer when I got to spend a week at her house. I couldn’t wait to go to Mama’s---just to be with her. Mama might have been short in stature but she was the spiritual giant of my life.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Glimpses of my Meditative Gleanings
7/26/10 My favorite thing about Monday mornings in the summertime is that I get to join the faithful, albeit small, group of prayer warriors in the prayer room at church. Today was my last day to have that privilege. As I’ve told you before the procedure is to have a passage of scripture for meditation prior to praying. This morning it was 3 chapters in II Chronicles---14, 15, & 16. “Too much” was my first thought. But the story of Asa would not have been complete and it’s his story that had such an impact on my meditation.
Chapter 14
v. 2 Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God (Could that be said about me?)
v. 3 …..he removed the altars of the foreign gods (What false idols need to be removed from my life?)
v. 4 He commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment. (Do I show leadership in encouraging others to seek the Lord?)
v. 6 ….because we have sought the LORD our God (Battles were won, rest and quiet were given b/c of seeking the Lord. 5x rest & quiet were mentioned in first 7 verses)
v. 11 ….in Your name we go against this multitude (Do I face my battles against the world’s way by calling on the Lord’s Hebrew name---Elohim?)
Chapter 15
v. 2 The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; (Wise men seek the Lord and He allows them to find Him.)
v. 4 when in their trouble they turned to the LORD God of Israel, and sought Him, He was found by them. (Does it take times of trouble to get my attention to cause me to turn to Him?)
v. 12 Then they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul (AM I seeking the Lord with all my heart and soul?)
v. 17 But the high places (a pagan religious worship area usually located on a natural height/hill) were not removed from Israel. Nevertheless the heart of Asa was loyal all his days. (A loyal heart for all one’s days---what a testimony. God sees the heart.)
Chapter 16 (Asa’s failure)
v. 7 “Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and have not relied on the LORD your God,…..(In Asa’s later years, he made mistakes/bad choices but God still knew his heart and Asa only needed to cry out to him.)
Dr. Constables notes summed it up.
Asa's heart was right in that he consistently loved God. Nevertheless, like David, his obedience lapsed. He trusted in a foreign alliance and later in physicians more than in Yahweh. This resulted in defeat and death.
See how meditation can lead to conviction, confession prayer and even further study!
Chapter 14
v. 2 Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God (Could that be said about me?)
v. 3 …..he removed the altars of the foreign gods (What false idols need to be removed from my life?)
v. 4 He commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment. (Do I show leadership in encouraging others to seek the Lord?)
v. 6 ….because we have sought the LORD our God (Battles were won, rest and quiet were given b/c of seeking the Lord. 5x rest & quiet were mentioned in first 7 verses)
v. 11 ….in Your name we go against this multitude (Do I face my battles against the world’s way by calling on the Lord’s Hebrew name---Elohim?)
Chapter 15
v. 2 The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; (Wise men seek the Lord and He allows them to find Him.)
v. 4 when in their trouble they turned to the LORD God of Israel, and sought Him, He was found by them. (Does it take times of trouble to get my attention to cause me to turn to Him?)
v. 12 Then they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul (AM I seeking the Lord with all my heart and soul?)
v. 17 But the high places (a pagan religious worship area usually located on a natural height/hill) were not removed from Israel. Nevertheless the heart of Asa was loyal all his days. (A loyal heart for all one’s days---what a testimony. God sees the heart.)
Chapter 16 (Asa’s failure)
v. 7 “Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and have not relied on the LORD your God,…..(In Asa’s later years, he made mistakes/bad choices but God still knew his heart and Asa only needed to cry out to him.)
Dr. Constables notes summed it up.
Asa's heart was right in that he consistently loved God. Nevertheless, like David, his obedience lapsed. He trusted in a foreign alliance and later in physicians more than in Yahweh. This resulted in defeat and death.
"Asa, then, has done a complete volte-face from his earlier faithfulness. Itv. 9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. (Lord, may I be found faithful even as I age. May others see a heart in me that is loyal to You.)
is as if we meet two altogether different Asas. He appeared first in the
strength of God-reliance, now in the weakness of self-reliance." (McConville, p.174)
See how meditation can lead to conviction, confession prayer and even further study!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Beach Bullets
7/25/10 This bulleted list is synergistic. Just combine the parts to get my whole idea of a week at the beach with family, including 1 expectant mom, 4 grandparents, 5 adult kids, 8 kids, ages 8 and under. The scriptures are also just snippets from memory---they literally came to mind while typing and so contextually only have meaning to me and my list, not to their complete scripture references, which are not included anyway. I hope that is not irreverent or even illegal in the writing realm.
Best Part of the trip comments---
Adults---time with family, seeing kids grow, building memories (Give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness)
Kids---“I got a Coke Zero on the boat.” “We have a TV in our room.” “We do too!” “Ice Age DVD.”
Hmm-m-m---looks like a bullet list of our memories are generationally different.
- Tennessee & Texas convene for 8th consecutive year at “Big Water” a Liles moniker for Seagrove Beach ---New Yorkers honeymooned in Bali instead. (The sea is His for He made it.)
- BIG crashing waves = fearless kids & fearful “on-watch” grandmothers, Shug & YaYa. (God has not given us a spirit of fear but power and love and a sound mind)
- Visits from other in Liles clan (12) beach year-rounders & visitors. (Be hospitable to one another)
- 1,000+ digital pictures among us---I just want 1 perfect (everyone looking) glossy of all the grands to hold in my hand. (May you see your children's children)
- "9 hole" and Bananagrams®---too late and too tired for Scrabble® & Boggle® this year (they they wait upon the Lord.....they shall walk and not faint or become tired/weary.)
- Beach read, latest “Tea Shop mystery” book, The Teaberry Strangler, goes virtually unread (excessive devotion to books is wearying)---and I thought it would be relaxing
- Disappointment = opportunity---non-working spray/splash fountain for kids at Seacrest/Rosemary led us to sledding in Costco boxes in grass bowl at Alys Beach--we shared out boxes with many on-lookers. (He called the dry land earth.)
- Corey, resident fix-it man---cars, AC, bikes and dishwashers and locator of “grass bowl” (by the sweat of your brow)
- Intracoastal Waterway boat ride for the “boys” with Captain Doug (cousin) allowing them at the helm (A generous man will himself be blessed,)
- Sandcastle building with cousins Grace and Anna---yes, there are some females in the Liles family, just not ours (He created them male and female and blessed them.)
- Eating out at a seafood restaurant---adults orders included grouper and flounder---kids orders included hot dogs and chicken nuggets (let them rule over the fish of the sea)
- Washer runs, dishwasher runs, kids run----constantly--(His bones are filled with youthful energy)
- Sleep is deep after hours of sun and water (He gives to His beloved even in their sleep)
- Red Bar for young adults with grouper (the best yet) and crab cakes plus Jay Liles on stage (the main draw) (Children are a gift from the Lord.)
- It takes a village---cooking, cleaning, feeding, diapering, sunscreening, monitoring swimming pool feats and ocean wave riding, de-sanding, biking, crafting in the morning, painting by the sea at twilight and crabbing at night, bubble bathing, storytelling, praying and singing to sleep, etc. etc. etc. (Serve one another.)
Best Part of the trip comments---
Adults---time with family, seeing kids grow, building memories (Give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness)
Kids---“I got a Coke Zero on the boat.” “We have a TV in our room.” “We do too!” “Ice Age DVD.”
Hmm-m-m---looks like a bullet list of our memories are generationally different.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Heartfelt Meditation
7/19/10 Yesterday's Allen Bible Church psalm for pondering had me considering meditation and wondering how I could post a blog for Monday's meditation. Then, "wa-lah" Molly picks up WiFi.
Psalm 5:1-3 1 Give ear to my words, O LORD,
Consider my meditation. 2 Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray. 3 My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; In the morning I will direct it to You, And I will look up.
Meditation on God's word renews our mind. It is a spiritual act of worship. It's more than just checking off an entry on our spiritual "to-do" list---much more than just "knowledge in" and "knowledge out." It requires engaging of the mind.
Last Sunday, First Evan's Pastor Jeremy reminded us of the importance of the following aspects of the Christian walk:
- Fill your heart with God's values. (not values of our culture)
- Engage your mind with God's Word. (meditation)
- Do the next right thing. (love your neighbor, serve others, esp. the poor)
Today's ABC psalm seemed to sum it up for me.
Examine me, O LORD, and prove me;
Try my mind and my heart. Psalm 26:2
I'm asking the Lord to examine me---I want my heart to be aligned with His heart and His values and my mind filled with His word so that my life might prove and reflect that which is His good and perfect will----loving and serving others.
Try my mind and my heart. Psalm 26:2
I'm asking the Lord to examine me---I want my heart to be aligned with His heart and His values and my mind filled with His word so that my life might prove and reflect that which is His good and perfect will----loving and serving others.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Gracious One….
7/16/10…..who gets my attention in such tangible ways has been using Psalms this summer to do just that. This morning both Allen Bible Church and Jesus Calling referenced Psalm 42. That really gets my attention. Here some snippets of the psalm.
1As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
2a My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior
8 By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.
11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Because verse 5 and 11 are the same that’s where my attention will be today. I am thirsting for more of him and directing my hope toward a gracious God who is worthy of my praise---Who calls my attention to what I need for the day/moment.
1As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
2a My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior
8 By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.
11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Because verse 5 and 11 are the same that’s where my attention will be today. I am thirsting for more of him and directing my hope toward a gracious God who is worthy of my praise---Who calls my attention to what I need for the day/moment.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Wearisome Words
7/15/10 Too verbose on blog. Succinct is the answer. Will try for terse verse, not burdensome blogs. Won’t resort to texting shortcuts---don’t know them anyway. S. Young has the pithy grabber prose (saying the most with the fewest words) down pat in today’s Jesus Calling. Here’s my take on her notes:
- Command=do not worry.
- God gives manageable portions.
- His grace sufficient one day at a time.
- A heap of worry staggers you.
- Thrust of trust is answer to meandering, crisscrossing, anxious thoughts.
- Let those shackels fall. Enjoy Him.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Notetaker
7/14/10 I’ve been called lots of things in my day and one of the most common is notetaker. (“Spellcheck” doesn’t like that I’ve made this a compound word, but to me it is just that.) A compound word is made when two words are joined to form a new word. One who takes notes is joined with the notes she takes just by the “doing” ---the action that so defines her. I’m sure that “spellcheck” would let me get away with it if I added a hyphen but I’m in a stubborn mood today and don’t feel like being hyphenated.
Notetaking seems to come naturally to me. I leave my marks everywhere---even in my devotional books and Bible. My grandmother Gena would have considered marking a Bible a travesty, if not sacrilegious but my grandmother, Mama Davenport was at least brave enough to underline in hers. I know, because I use her Bible often---those underlines have given me great insight into her life---which feels like a great privilege to me.
Marginalia in favorite books, from “self-help” and “how-to” to inspirational books and Bible study guides and resource books, is where much of my notetaking occurs.
My calendar looks like one big notepad. This week as I’ve been packing for an upcoming trip I’ve referred to “Big Water” notes from ’07, ’08 and ’09 calendars. It’s the way I know to bring 3 nightlights, not to buy Sam’s potato salad because not many folks ate it, or to be sure and pack a Sharpie® so that those water bottles, that the kids only take a few sips from, can be labeled and refrigerated for later use. (I don’t like that kind of waste----I know because I “noted” that in a journal one time!)
Even atlases and maps have my notes on them----everything from date & “our” time and distances of travel to places to eat along the way, followed by a rating once we eat there.
As many of you know, I often try to color code may notetaking or at least keep it in some kind of order----not on torn off slips of paper that end up here, there and yon. Lately that does not have the order that I like and I’m spending way too much time looking for my “notes.”
I think I’ve gotten more obsessive about notetaking as I have aged---I feel as if it helps me to hold on to the memory that I seem to be losing. I’m sure it gives me some semblance of control---now that’s a real joke.
Sometimes I feel as if I can’t function without my notes and that’s when I know I’ve gone to the extreme. I think I need to branch out and really wing it. Nah---not yet. Nevertheless, I do need to learn to give myself permission not to always have everything together (which I don’t ---I just keep trying) Maybe a blank sheet with none of my notes/directions would allow the Lord to more fully direct my steps. Of course, then I’d probably have to write down His agenda for future reference----you know, just in case I need it.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 says that "whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all of your might"----(I guess notetaking could fit there.) Though later in chapter 12 it says that too many words and writing is vanity and wearying to the body.
I think the real answer is in I Corinthians 10:13, “whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Even notetaking can be taken to the extreme and have nothing to do with Him----so how do I temper this? Any suggestions from a godly notetaker? This notetaker would love to hear from you.
Notetaking seems to come naturally to me. I leave my marks everywhere---even in my devotional books and Bible. My grandmother Gena would have considered marking a Bible a travesty, if not sacrilegious but my grandmother, Mama Davenport was at least brave enough to underline in hers. I know, because I use her Bible often---those underlines have given me great insight into her life---which feels like a great privilege to me.
Marginalia in favorite books, from “self-help” and “how-to” to inspirational books and Bible study guides and resource books, is where much of my notetaking occurs.
My calendar looks like one big notepad. This week as I’ve been packing for an upcoming trip I’ve referred to “Big Water” notes from ’07, ’08 and ’09 calendars. It’s the way I know to bring 3 nightlights, not to buy Sam’s potato salad because not many folks ate it, or to be sure and pack a Sharpie® so that those water bottles, that the kids only take a few sips from, can be labeled and refrigerated for later use. (I don’t like that kind of waste----I know because I “noted” that in a journal one time!)
Even atlases and maps have my notes on them----everything from date & “our” time and distances of travel to places to eat along the way, followed by a rating once we eat there.
As many of you know, I often try to color code may notetaking or at least keep it in some kind of order----not on torn off slips of paper that end up here, there and yon. Lately that does not have the order that I like and I’m spending way too much time looking for my “notes.”
I think I’ve gotten more obsessive about notetaking as I have aged---I feel as if it helps me to hold on to the memory that I seem to be losing. I’m sure it gives me some semblance of control---now that’s a real joke.
Sometimes I feel as if I can’t function without my notes and that’s when I know I’ve gone to the extreme. I think I need to branch out and really wing it. Nah---not yet. Nevertheless, I do need to learn to give myself permission not to always have everything together (which I don’t ---I just keep trying) Maybe a blank sheet with none of my notes/directions would allow the Lord to more fully direct my steps. Of course, then I’d probably have to write down His agenda for future reference----you know, just in case I need it.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 says that "whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all of your might"----(I guess notetaking could fit there.) Though later in chapter 12 it says that too many words and writing is vanity and wearying to the body.
I think the real answer is in I Corinthians 10:13, “whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Even notetaking can be taken to the extreme and have nothing to do with Him----so how do I temper this? Any suggestions from a godly notetaker? This notetaker would love to hear from you.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Waiting Rooms
7/13/10 We have all been in different periods of waiting in our lives---sometimes in actual rooms. Waiting rooms in labor and delivery are fun places to be. Not so much so in an ICU waiting room. Today’s trip to West Clinic to wait for info on Mommar was somewhere in between those beginning and ending extremes.
I’m not sure what I expected---maybe a sterile environment with people slumped in chairs under a spell of self-pity, dwelling on their own sorrow or disappointment. Would there be tears of despondency? I knew there would be tears from brother-in-law Bill. He had cried yesterday during her birthday celebration.
There were lots of different waiting rooms at West clinic---somewhat warm and inviting, especially considering the circumstances. But the room that I saw that seemed to be filled with the most smiles was the one full of the folks in the recliners waiting for the completion of their chemo treatment. Maybe it was because these people had hope that their treatment would give them more tomorrows.
Not only does our sovereign Lord not leave us during a time of suffering, He gives us hope for “better tomorrows.” He gives us a course of action, a place to turn---toward Him. The invitation of Hebrews 4:16 is open to all who are in God’s waiting room. "Let us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." If you are there, in a period of waiting, boldy approach the One who is the Giver of grace and mercy. You will find it in your time of need even as you “wait.”
I’m not sure what I expected---maybe a sterile environment with people slumped in chairs under a spell of self-pity, dwelling on their own sorrow or disappointment. Would there be tears of despondency? I knew there would be tears from brother-in-law Bill. He had cried yesterday during her birthday celebration.
There were lots of different waiting rooms at West clinic---somewhat warm and inviting, especially considering the circumstances. But the room that I saw that seemed to be filled with the most smiles was the one full of the folks in the recliners waiting for the completion of their chemo treatment. Maybe it was because these people had hope that their treatment would give them more tomorrows.
Not only does our sovereign Lord not leave us during a time of suffering, He gives us hope for “better tomorrows.” He gives us a course of action, a place to turn---toward Him. The invitation of Hebrews 4:16 is open to all who are in God’s waiting room. "Let us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." If you are there, in a period of waiting, boldy approach the One who is the Giver of grace and mercy. You will find it in your time of need even as you “wait.”
Monday, July 12, 2010
CARTOGRAPHERS OF THE OLD FASHION VARIETY
7/12/10………okay, I’m not a map maker but I am a map lover. Hubby Larry thinks my affinity for maps is a little over the top. I love maps and atlases. They offer so many possibilities. Even at our Christmas “bag game” parties, if there’s an updated atlas in the mix, I’m right in there, (usually with the men) jockeying for that ultimate prize.
During past travels in the English countryside, the first place I would go would be the TI. (Tourist Information Center) A wealth of brochures with area maps---right up my alley. US roadside Welcome Centers are a must for me when traveling stateside. Texas has BIG ones. Mississippi has hospitable ones----they serve coke with a smile and a syrupy Southern accent. This summer the Tennessee facility had, along with clean restrooms, a 2010 map!! Yea---first “new” map in two years that I’ve found. Plus, TN must realize that “Baby Boomers” are the only folks using maps anymore because the 2010 publication is like a "large print" edition.
This past weekend, Michèle found us using her recent eBay purchase of a Garmin. It just stuck on her windshield. She said it talked her through the trip down from Canada. Larry told her he had his own GPS and he stuck “her” in the front seat (shotgun position) right beside him---usually with an open atlas, road map or MapQuest sheet in her lap. His GPS also “talked” the entire trip. (Not true----said GPS also naps, once on a familiar course.)
Hubby also asked Michèle if her Garmin called her stupid if she got off-course. Stupid is the “S” word at our house & not allowed. She said the GPS word for “stupid” was “recalculating.”
Recalculating (or Plan B) is always necessary for this GPS woman---it allows for new paths, byways and, as yet, undiscovered back roads. With a “local’s” suggestion, rather that a detailed topographical map, we found a great scenic road when coming home from Doris and Tom’s Full Circle Ranch in Lewisburg, TN---a road less traveled by others and one never traveled before by us. One just needs to be open to possibilities----
It’s Monday and we have several options/possibilities for meditating on God’s word. Choose the one that fits the road you are on today. Allow Him to be your GPS.
During past travels in the English countryside, the first place I would go would be the TI. (Tourist Information Center) A wealth of brochures with area maps---right up my alley. US roadside Welcome Centers are a must for me when traveling stateside. Texas has BIG ones. Mississippi has hospitable ones----they serve coke with a smile and a syrupy Southern accent. This summer the Tennessee facility had, along with clean restrooms, a 2010 map!! Yea---first “new” map in two years that I’ve found. Plus, TN must realize that “Baby Boomers” are the only folks using maps anymore because the 2010 publication is like a "large print" edition.
This past weekend, Michèle found us using her recent eBay purchase of a Garmin. It just stuck on her windshield. She said it talked her through the trip down from Canada. Larry told her he had his own GPS and he stuck “her” in the front seat (shotgun position) right beside him---usually with an open atlas, road map or MapQuest sheet in her lap. His GPS also “talked” the entire trip. (Not true----said GPS also naps, once on a familiar course.)
Hubby also asked Michèle if her Garmin called her stupid if she got off-course. Stupid is the “S” word at our house & not allowed. She said the GPS word for “stupid” was “recalculating.”
Recalculating (or Plan B) is always necessary for this GPS woman---it allows for new paths, byways and, as yet, undiscovered back roads. With a “local’s” suggestion, rather that a detailed topographical map, we found a great scenic road when coming home from Doris and Tom’s Full Circle Ranch in Lewisburg, TN---a road less traveled by others and one never traveled before by us. One just needs to be open to possibilities----
It’s Monday and we have several options/possibilities for meditating on God’s word. Choose the one that fits the road you are on today. Allow Him to be your GPS.
- This is what the LORD says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. (Isaiah 48:17)
With the Lord there are infinite possibilities.
- The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. (Psalm 37:23)
- The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Fireworks Revisited
7/11/10 Last night grandson, Owen, “called” us from the Redbirds game to tell us that he was seeing BIG fireworks and that people kept saying ooh and ahh. I was a little surprised that the noise didn’t scare him but he was saying, “Look.” (We actually could see a little--thanks to the cell phone pic that arrived.) Then we heard Owen oohing and ahhing.
Tonight he called from his B.B. and Poppy’s house because he was getting to see more fireworks---really loud ones too. What joy in his voice as his dad and granddad and Memphis neighbor, Derrick, offered fireworks just for Owen. It was obvious that they delighted in delighting him.
Last Thursday, Jesus Calling mentioned fireworks. “When your Joy in Me meets My Joy in you, there are fireworks of heavenly ecstasy.” This weekend I think the Lord was oohing and aahing as He heard us (Michèle and Dotsy) joyfully celebrating seeing each other. Our joy is a result that comes from all we have in Him---a true fellowship of two believers on the same side of a MAC struggle. Celebrating life & turned toward Him.
That’s like double ecstasy---really loud oohing and aahing coming forth. Real fireworks----that will continue throughout eternity!! Heavenly ecstasy!!
Tonight he called from his B.B. and Poppy’s house because he was getting to see more fireworks---really loud ones too. What joy in his voice as his dad and granddad and Memphis neighbor, Derrick, offered fireworks just for Owen. It was obvious that they delighted in delighting him.
Last Thursday, Jesus Calling mentioned fireworks. “When your Joy in Me meets My Joy in you, there are fireworks of heavenly ecstasy.” This weekend I think the Lord was oohing and aahing as He heard us (Michèle and Dotsy) joyfully celebrating seeing each other. Our joy is a result that comes from all we have in Him---a true fellowship of two believers on the same side of a MAC struggle. Celebrating life & turned toward Him.
That’s like double ecstasy---really loud oohing and aahing coming forth. Real fireworks----that will continue throughout eternity!! Heavenly ecstasy!!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Excerpts of Encouragement
7/8/10 Leaving soon for Hoptown to spend a couple of days with Daddy and then on to Nashville to meet up with Michèle. Ah-h-h, Michèle---my encourager extraordinaire. What a mentor! What an example of ministering to others.
Here’s a peek at some of her “notes” that encouraged me without sugarcoating my diagnosis----she knew what I would be facing and was willing to share her experiences.
From first e-mail
Know that you are supported by this stranger who has stood where you stand and made it through to the other side.
2nd note---Throughout this McJourney, I have known a peace that simply cannot be explained in human terms. I know from reading your blog, Dotsy, that you have a special connection with your Maker and I know that will serve you well in the months and weeks ahead... He is NEVER far.
Please know that I am praying for you even as I write. (M taught me to do this)
1/23/09 I'm more than happy to walk this road with you ….I know there's no such thing as a benign response to the C-word...
1/24/09 I know the trauma, the physical ache, of this kind of thing--despite the strongest possible sense that God is near. But I've also reached the other side now and been able to look back and see the blessings, the GOLDEN linings that I might have missed ….. .I know that faith does not spare us entirely from the very real fears and nervousness that come from living in a fallen world with an ailing body. Those fears, those sleepless nights and moments of near-panic, are not a condemnation of our spirituality, they are the expression of our humanity.
And if we somehow manage to continue to live in hope and joy in spite of them, that's a validation of the God whose comfort surpasses our very limited understanding. (A-men to that, Michèle)
2/2/10 I want to encourage you--exhort you!--to allow at least a handful of those who love you to see the full scope of your emotional response to this devastating blow. Or if you'd rather vent to a relative stranger who would NEVER condemn you for honest emotions, you can do so to me too.
I've discovered that in moments of gravest need, God uses flesh-and-blood angels to soothe and comfort. The road of my McJourney has been paved with the stepping stones of kindred believers and gentle strangers, and I pray the same will be true for you. (Oh, how true that was for me---the “land of the living” my, willing to be used by God, flesh and blood angels have blessed me and mine beyond measure.)
I know that God is here… (and so do I!)
Michèle sharing her own journey was the greatest comfort for me----God was (is) here. It is His hand I've felt on my back, warmed by late-day sun. It is His peace in my mind, soothed and unraveled by His answer to my prayer. It is His promise in my chest, loosening the stranglehold, with every deep breath, of that oppressive opaque uneasiness. He was the faint light growing deeper; the warm colors of beginnings, not the heavy cold hues of endings.
Michèle THOTS---I’m not saying that it will be easy if Mac takes his worst possible course. But it will be okay....Because God has made promises that transcend our physical experience..... life is already—filled with ..... loving and being loved, and unfathomable serenity.
This morning when I read this year old note from Michèle, I realized the depth of truth that her words held.
Dotsy, every time I think about you I simultaneously feel a tightening in my chest for the journey still ahead and a surge of praise for the way God is going to walk with you at every turn in the unpredictable road that will lead to your healing. I'm sure you can't even imagine it the nearly-physical reality of His presence yet, but you'll experience it in a breathtaking way, even amid the pain and sadness and anger and depression the journey might entail. He'll be there. So powerfully and so comfortingly. You'll be amazed.
I was indeed amazed and blessed by my MAC journey/dance, just like Michèle said I would be. Her encouragement was a big part of that.
Last fall Michèle wrote on one of her gorgeous handmade photo notes:
I think of you daily and pray already for your October surgery. God has been so good to you.….and he isn’t going to stop now! I consider myself honored to stand with you in prayer & spirit & even more blessed to call you friend. With much love ---and already looking forward to our next encounter.
Our next encounter---wow it will this weekend. Isn’t God good!! Maybe I can, in someway, encourage her---because that’s the way it’s suppose to be.
Encouragement is a great way to “do good.”
Encouragement. Reciprocate, pass it forward---just do it. Strew your life’s path with excerpts of encouragement for others. You’ll be glad you did and so will they.
Here’s a peek at some of her “notes” that encouraged me without sugarcoating my diagnosis----she knew what I would be facing and was willing to share her experiences.
From first e-mail
Know that you are supported by this stranger who has stood where you stand and made it through to the other side.
2nd note---Throughout this McJourney, I have known a peace that simply cannot be explained in human terms. I know from reading your blog, Dotsy, that you have a special connection with your Maker and I know that will serve you well in the months and weeks ahead... He is NEVER far.
Please know that I am praying for you even as I write. (M taught me to do this)
1/23/09 I'm more than happy to walk this road with you ….I know there's no such thing as a benign response to the C-word...
1/24/09 I know the trauma, the physical ache, of this kind of thing--despite the strongest possible sense that God is near. But I've also reached the other side now and been able to look back and see the blessings, the GOLDEN linings that I might have missed ….. .I know that faith does not spare us entirely from the very real fears and nervousness that come from living in a fallen world with an ailing body. Those fears, those sleepless nights and moments of near-panic, are not a condemnation of our spirituality, they are the expression of our humanity.
And if we somehow manage to continue to live in hope and joy in spite of them, that's a validation of the God whose comfort surpasses our very limited understanding. (A-men to that, Michèle)
2/2/10 I want to encourage you--exhort you!--to allow at least a handful of those who love you to see the full scope of your emotional response to this devastating blow. Or if you'd rather vent to a relative stranger who would NEVER condemn you for honest emotions, you can do so to me too.
I've discovered that in moments of gravest need, God uses flesh-and-blood angels to soothe and comfort. The road of my McJourney has been paved with the stepping stones of kindred believers and gentle strangers, and I pray the same will be true for you. (Oh, how true that was for me---the “land of the living” my, willing to be used by God, flesh and blood angels have blessed me and mine beyond measure.)
I know that God is here… (and so do I!)
Michèle sharing her own journey was the greatest comfort for me----God was (is) here. It is His hand I've felt on my back, warmed by late-day sun. It is His peace in my mind, soothed and unraveled by His answer to my prayer. It is His promise in my chest, loosening the stranglehold, with every deep breath, of that oppressive opaque uneasiness. He was the faint light growing deeper; the warm colors of beginnings, not the heavy cold hues of endings.
Michèle THOTS---I’m not saying that it will be easy if Mac takes his worst possible course. But it will be okay....Because God has made promises that transcend our physical experience..... life is already—filled with ..... loving and being loved, and unfathomable serenity.
This morning when I read this year old note from Michèle, I realized the depth of truth that her words held.
Dotsy, every time I think about you I simultaneously feel a tightening in my chest for the journey still ahead and a surge of praise for the way God is going to walk with you at every turn in the unpredictable road that will lead to your healing. I'm sure you can't even imagine it the nearly-physical reality of His presence yet, but you'll experience it in a breathtaking way, even amid the pain and sadness and anger and depression the journey might entail. He'll be there. So powerfully and so comfortingly. You'll be amazed.
I was indeed amazed and blessed by my MAC journey/dance, just like Michèle said I would be. Her encouragement was a big part of that.
Last fall Michèle wrote on one of her gorgeous handmade photo notes:
I think of you daily and pray already for your October surgery. God has been so good to you.….and he isn’t going to stop now! I consider myself honored to stand with you in prayer & spirit & even more blessed to call you friend. With much love ---and already looking forward to our next encounter.
Our next encounter---wow it will this weekend. Isn’t God good!! Maybe I can, in someway, encourage her---because that’s the way it’s suppose to be.
So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith (Galatians 6:10)Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, (I Thessalonians 5:11)
Encouragement. Reciprocate, pass it forward---just do it. Strew your life’s path with excerpts of encouragement for others. You’ll be glad you did and so will they.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Unrealistic Expectations
7/7/10 Reality has a way of nudging, or sometimes shoving us away from cozy assumptions. Life can turn on a dime. Those cozy assumptions can fly out the window and we can be hit head on with reality that can be excruciating. My friend, Bernie, at age 17 was driving the car, when the wreck occurred that took her mother’s life. Laura Bush in her recent memoir, Spoken From the Heart, tells of running a stop sign at age 17 and striking another car that resulted in the death of Mike, a classmate/friend, from her high school. Over the years she has learned that tragedy is no respecter of persons & “if onlys” are fruitless.
Other turns might not be as tragic but they can certainly cause a seismic shift in our thinking. Cancer diagnosis, a spouse who just needs space so he/she walks out the door, needy aging parents, disappointment in children and their choices, downsizing, or just plain warn out with living in the frantic pace and global tragedies of 2010.
Maybe we just need to let go of the unrealistic expectation of ever living in a completely “fair, sane, just, and loving world.” (J. Viorst) It just isn’t going to happen, this side of heaven. To expect that is unrealistic. People will disappoint us. We need to take the stress/pressure off our loved ones by no longer “demanding” that they be perfect. We want them to meet our every expectation. But, suppose they don’t. It’s all that supposing that makes us miserable. Suppose our life turns on a dime tomorrow? I need to give it all up and just trust the Lord. How ‘bout you?
Other turns might not be as tragic but they can certainly cause a seismic shift in our thinking. Cancer diagnosis, a spouse who just needs space so he/she walks out the door, needy aging parents, disappointment in children and their choices, downsizing, or just plain warn out with living in the frantic pace and global tragedies of 2010.
Maybe we just need to let go of the unrealistic expectation of ever living in a completely “fair, sane, just, and loving world.” (J. Viorst) It just isn’t going to happen, this side of heaven. To expect that is unrealistic. People will disappoint us. We need to take the stress/pressure off our loved ones by no longer “demanding” that they be perfect. We want them to meet our every expectation. But, suppose they don’t. It’s all that supposing that makes us miserable. Suppose our life turns on a dime tomorrow? I need to give it all up and just trust the Lord. How ‘bout you?
The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace,
Because he trusts in You.
Trust in the LORD forever,
For in GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock. (Isa. 26:3-4)
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
GIGI GIFT revealed
7/6/10….I’ve gotten phone calls, emails, blog comments and face to face questions so I decided to “globally” answer the question, “What did Gigi give Josh and his bride as a wedding gift?”
Drum roll please----a sterling silver Francis the First pastry server. I think Mother (aka Gigi) figured it could be used in their home to serve the chocolate chess pie. (recipe included with
the gift) They actually used it in their wedding to cut the tiered wedding cake. Yes, I cried---couldn’t help it, especially since on a nearby table were engagement/wedding pictures of all the grandmothers. I’m not sure but I think maybe Mother’s winked or maybe that was just me blinking back the tears. (Gigi is third from left)
BTW, they also had a scrumptious caramel cake with sea salt for that sweet and salty taste that has become my flavor of choice. I had my first taste of sweet and salty caramel ice cream at the Shake Shack (Madison Sq Park at 23rd) on one of my first trips to NYC to visit Josh/Megan. Salted Caramel was on the Shack’s October custard calendar for Thursday, the night we arrived, so I lucked out.
Josh and Megan also provided “hot tea,” as well as coffee, to accompany their 3 cakes. You know how much this new mother-in-law appreciated both the “cuppa” and the thought.
The Gigi gift that Josh and Megan unwrapped was indeed shiny and beautiful, though not terribly expensive. The real gift was Gigi’s heart, wrapped in Gigi’s love. It revealed how special her grandson was to her----and that’s priceless.
Drum roll please----a sterling silver Francis the First pastry server. I think Mother (aka Gigi) figured it could be used in their home to serve the chocolate chess pie. (recipe included with
the gift) They actually used it in their wedding to cut the tiered wedding cake. Yes, I cried---couldn’t help it, especially since on a nearby table were engagement/wedding pictures of all the grandmothers. I’m not sure but I think maybe Mother’s winked or maybe that was just me blinking back the tears. (Gigi is third from left)
Josh and Megan also provided “hot tea,” as well as coffee, to accompany their 3 cakes. You know how much this new mother-in-law appreciated both the “cuppa” and the thought.
The Gigi gift that Josh and Megan unwrapped was indeed shiny and beautiful, though not terribly expensive. The real gift was Gigi’s heart, wrapped in Gigi’s love. It revealed how special her grandson was to her----and that’s priceless.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Obligations
7/5/10 Have you been there, done that and survived? In the area of suffering have you not only survived but thrived? Then, you need to pass it on!
Last year, Michèle did just that for me, first in an e-mail and then more fully in a blog with great pictures that enhanced the analogy.
But the gist is this---“the responsibility we have, as survivors, ….stand at the top and call down to those still struggling to the summit. Whether they’re emotional, physical, or spiritual, the mountains we’ve conquered are not ours to own, but ours to share. We might not always want to revisit the pain we’ve suffered or the crippling we’ve endured, but if we don’t offer them to others as a testimony of God’s sustenance and love, our fellow travelers may not have the courage to find their way to the top.”
Plus, it’s scriptural---so pass “it” on to others as Michèle has passed “it” on to me----what ever your “it” of comfort has been from the Lord as well as from those in the “land of the living.”
Last year, Michèle did just that for me, first in an e-mail and then more fully in a blog with great pictures that enhanced the analogy.
But the gist is this---“the responsibility we have, as survivors, ….stand at the top and call down to those still struggling to the summit. Whether they’re emotional, physical, or spiritual, the mountains we’ve conquered are not ours to own, but ours to share. We might not always want to revisit the pain we’ve suffered or the crippling we’ve endured, but if we don’t offer them to others as a testimony of God’s sustenance and love, our fellow travelers may not have the courage to find their way to the top.”
Plus, it’s scriptural---so pass “it” on to others as Michèle has passed “it” on to me----what ever your “it” of comfort has been from the Lord as well as from those in the “land of the living.”
II Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who (comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
FIREWORKS
7/4/10 I don’t remember fireworks as a child----maybe Hoptown was too small to have a display. I remember as a young married shooting bottle rockets off of Pop’s dock at Pickwick and watching in horror as a sparkler melted down on top of brother Buddy’s hand, which he quickly doused in the lake water.
As an expectant mother I remember baby (Buddy) jumping in utero in response to the June 1970 “Memphis in May” fireworks. Years later, celebrating the 4th as a mother on Longreen, I would hold my kids back as the Lewis’ boys, aided by their dad, John, would set off cherry bombs and firecrackers and light Roman candles and those snakey things that turned into charcoal ash and smoked and others that whistled as they snaked down the street.
This year our street will be quiet. There are only 4 children on our Longreen now---2 teens, 1 toddler and an infant. No fireworks are anticipated. We won’t even be able to see fireworks from our “treetops” bedroom because Shelby Farms no longer has fireworks.
The quiet is okay with me---it would probably “rattle” Mommar anyway. But the reason for celebrating does not diminish for me—or for the folks at Hobby Lobby. Their full page ad in this morning’s Commercial Appeal said it well. “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
As an expectant mother I remember baby (Buddy) jumping in utero in response to the June 1970 “Memphis in May” fireworks. Years later, celebrating the 4th as a mother on Longreen, I would hold my kids back as the Lewis’ boys, aided by their dad, John, would set off cherry bombs and firecrackers and light Roman candles and those snakey things that turned into charcoal ash and smoked and others that whistled as they snaked down the street.
This year our street will be quiet. There are only 4 children on our Longreen now---2 teens, 1 toddler and an infant. No fireworks are anticipated. We won’t even be able to see fireworks from our “treetops” bedroom because Shelby Farms no longer has fireworks.
The quiet is okay with me---it would probably “rattle” Mommar anyway. But the reason for celebrating does not diminish for me—or for the folks at Hobby Lobby. Their full page ad in this morning’s Commercial Appeal said it well. “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
IT IS THE DUTY OF ALL NATIONS TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROVIDENCE OF ALMIGHTY GOD, TO OBEY HIS WILL, TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HIS BENEFITS AND HUMBLY TO IMPLORE HIS PROTECTION AND FAVOR. (George Washington)
OUR CONSTITUTION WAS MADE ONLY FOR A MORAL AND RELIGIOUS PEOPLE. (John Adams)
WE’VE BEEN ASSURED IN THE SACRED WRITINGS THAT UNLESS THE LORD BUILDS THE HOUSE, THEY LABOR IN VAIN WHO BUILD IT. (Benjamin Franklin)
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. (Psalm 33:12)
These words certainly light a “spark” in my heart.Friday, July 2, 2010
Shucking corn……
7/2/10….snapping beans and shelling peas. Summertime must be here. Not so many years ago (or so it seems) I had every kid in the neighborhood sitting in a big plastic wading pool with a bushel of silver queen corn pulled fresh that morning at Gragg’s farm. They were shucking away. At the end of the event, everyone was hosed off to get rid of the “itchies” and the stray silks and then treated to popsicles----which resulted in more hosing off.
This year I just had sweet Mississippi yellow corn from Kroger---and only a 3 year old to help “peel” (Owen’s term) the corn so the process was a little slower---but still an adventure!
“Look Shug, we found it!” was Owen’s comment after shucking (peeling) his first ear and seeing the kernels of corn emerge.
Proverbs 17:6a says, “Grandchildren are the crown of old men”
I venture to say they are the crown of old women as well. This old woman certainly felt queenly today getting to discover anew the fun of summertime just by shucking corn with her grandson.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Michèle’s Morsels
7/1/10 One year ago yesterday, I met Michèle Phoenix stateside. The face-to-face / scar-to-scar meeting took place in Louisville, KY where my older brother Buddy lives. The timing, of her being there from Germany for a MI doc appointment, and me being there after a high school reunion weekend, was such a God-thing. Of course, the two of us (MAC victims) connecting at all, especially continents away, was miraculous in and of itself. Musing on all of this I as I read back through my journal, I realized that Michèle mentored me, albeit from afar, and it was her personal knowledge of the cancer and her spiritual grounding that God used to equip me to find joy in my journey.
My memorable morsels from Michèle:
http://michelephoenix.com/postcards-from-the-waters-edge/
One week from tomorrow in Nashville, TN where my younger brother, Bobby & his wife now have a condo (near their grands) Michèle and I will meet again. Such another God-thing!
My memorable morsels from Michèle:
- MAC (our cancer) is a gift we can embrace because it flows from God’s grace;
- Ceaselessly seek reasons to celebrate a life turned toward Him;
- Make note of kindnesses of strangers and the serendipitous occurrences that lend a ray of unexpectedness to your days;
- Acknowledge “Divine Winks;” (similar to my "glory bumps")
- Focus on God’s truths throughout your journey/dance;
- The Center of God’s will might not guarantee physical safety but it does offer utter fulfillment, purpose, comfort and peace;
- We are to each other a priceless gift from a tangible and intimately present God;
- Be a galvanizing inspirer and come to the rescue of others by using your first hand experiences to serve an eternal and invaluable purpose; (A-MEN!)
- In your “new normal” (cancer victim), continue to seek and lean on the One whose love redeems your pain;
http://michelephoenix.com/postcards-from-the-waters-edge/
One week from tomorrow in Nashville, TN where my younger brother, Bobby & his wife now have a condo (near their grands) Michèle and I will meet again. Such another God-thing!
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