Gratitude

I didn’t sleep much last night, woke up early to greet the 35° day. The sun is bright and clear. There’s no wind. As I walk the dogs, I can see my breath and God’s glitter on the field. It’s a frosty day. It is also the first day, I feel more myself than I’ve felt all month.

As I lay in my bed I realized that I am braver when I am not left alone.

It feels like I am living the It’s a Wonderful Life movie. I’ve had such a drenching, sustained response to our great need. 

Like Clarence says,

 “Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?”

It’s a Wonderful Life

But the thing is the hole created by Philip’s struggle, for me, has been filled to overflowing by people from all parts of my life as far back as my childhood. It has been as wonder-full and life affirming as the scene where Mary pushes everything off the table to make room for the outpouring of unexpected gratitude and kindness on its way. She says, paraphrased by me, 

 “We just had to say that Philip was in trouble and everyone came out.”

It is the truth of Psalms 91:11-12 in action:

“For God will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will lift you up.” 

Each one of you, in your own sweet way, have lifted me up so I can bear this difficult time. I am humbled by your generosity, words, and prayers and will be forever grateful that I was not alone at such a time as this. You’ve made a difference in this struggle by blessing us so completely.

Thank you! 

Anne
January 27,2021