I Get By With A Little (Make That ALOT) Of Help From My Friends

We often hear people say that when something drastic happens in their life, people come out of the woodwork. Well, if that is true that last few months have proved my life could be the billboard for a lumber company.

Back in June when I went in for emergency surgery I was so incredibly humbled and blessed by the outpouring of love and support shown to me by my friends. My surgeon even asked, 'Where do I get friends like yours?" to which I replied, "Church" =) During that time I was amazed that people cared so much about me and for me. Spending countless hours at the hospital, running errands for me and my mother, being there when I got home, seeing that I did not lift so much as a finger -- sometimes literally -- was more than my medicated emotions could often take.

I have relished in the fact that for the better part of 10 yrs. I have been very independent. I have not relied on parental finical support, except on my birthday and Christmas, I moved to a big city up north where I did not know a soul -- can I get an Amen -- and have had a whirlwind of job changes and losses to occupy the better part of 5 years. I knew how lucky I was to have found a church like FBCA and the friends I had made there. I counted my lucky stars that I had this incredible network of folks, like minded and encouraging, to spend time with and fill in the gaps until "real life" took over.

However, as we all know in our hearts or will learn first hand, you don't know how good you have it until it is tested. That is the lesson I was so honored to learn, and yet still to this day try to think of ways to pay back all of those that where here for me in June. I don't think I ever will be able to meet that debt, and yet it is one, unlike my tab here at the hospital, that I will never be asked to settle.

And thus, we are here again. Back in the hospital and astounded by the care, love and support that has been shown to me by so many of my friends. From stopping by to check on me and say hello before heading home for the day, bringing me real snacks and hours of fantastic entertainment with "The Office" season 5, or once again holding my hand while blood is drawn. I am amazed that while my "single" status would lead some to believe I was alone, I am far from it. Instead of just one person to hold my hand, I have many. Instead of just one person to check on me or bring me something, I have many.

My women's bible study this week is on walking through the wilderness. I was yet again amazed at the timing of this. Just a few hours before being admitted, I was with some of these wonderful friends learning how the wilderness can come at any time, but we are never walking through it alone!!! The Lord knows how hardheaded I am and has shown me in tangible ways, how He is here with me every moment. What a comfort!!! (even during the needle sticks)

So, while this was not in my plan for the day, as my IV nurse said; "You know what they say when we tell them our plans, God laughs" -- he loves Jesus..., it is better to be safe than dead and I will take my little overnight stay and my newest addition to my hospital water jug collection and write yet another chapter in my book, filled with the wonderful ways God shows me He loves me and cares for me. (it is worth noting, I think I am getting the message, but if for some reason He still needs to make it clear, I'd pray it would not need to be another trip to the hospital on a Monday...just a suggestion) :)