August 21, 2011

Chris and I have been going through rough patch for about a year and a half. We've been struggling some financially, struggling some emotionally and even struggling some spiritually. Losing a business, a job, a dog whom we loved very much, and now this year some medical issues....it does get one down a bit. Now, I know there are lots of folks struggling right along with us in their own lives...some much worse then we. For most of this time, we have both been coping in our own way. I hold my worries inside most of the time. I think Chris does that, too for the most part..but, he does deal with things better and is better at turning his worries over to the Lord. I am getting better at this, and am also getting better at not keeping things pent up inside as much.

This morning we were giving a check at church to help with medical expenses. This was totally unexpected, and left me speechless and in tears. I didn't know what to say. We have never received help like this, but then...we have never been in such a period of struggle as we have been. I was overwhelmed and touched. It is hard to accept help. Someone I work with who had been going through her own financial struggles, has been slowly climbing up out of her abyss. A few weeks ago she had an unexpected 30 dollars. Not a lot, but unexpected. And she gave it to me and insisted I keep it. That particular week I did need gas money...and I told her I would pay it back. She said, no...it's a gift. You can't give a gift back.

It is so much easier for most of us to give help to others. To offer assistance whether it be financially, a meal taken to some one's home, a ride in a car when needed or just someone to talk to. But, most of us find it hard to be on the other end of this and to be the one receiving it. I am one of these and as of late, I have had to swallow my pride and accept some assistance from others.

I have a wonderful church family...and a wonderful network of friends. When I moan and groan about troubles in my life...I really need to slap myself because I have so many things to thank God for. More blessings then I realize, but am slowly opening my eyes to.

God is good, all the time. And all the time we should be thanking him.