The last six months or so for our family could certainly be described as overwhelming, sad and troublesome.
We have suffered the loss of many loved ones and have been faced with medical worries that no one ever wants to experience.
In all of this, we have tried to keep a positive attitude. And this has only been possible because of all of the wonderful people surrounding us. So many people have reached out in so many different ways to let us know that prayers are being offered on our behalf.
I have never been one to send many cards, and while I have enjoyed cards sent to me in the past, I would set them aside and not give them more thought. My husband, on the other hand, has probably kept the majority of the cards and letters which he has received over the years.
In these past few months, we have received numerous cards — and we have kept them all. And each time I open one, I can already feel the love and prayers with which it was written and I am so comforted reading the words within.
Not only have we received cards, but subscribers renewing their papers have written meaningful notes on the back of their renewal notices or included small notes of prayer and words of comfort.
I have often said that we live in the best community and I stand by that. The support that we have been shown is overwhelming.
As with any serious illness, the medical bills start rolling in and the cost of treatments begin to add up. Many have contributed to a medical fund that has been set up for us and dear friends have organized fundraisers that have benefitted us.
Friends have made life easier for us by preparing or buying meals for us.
In the hard times of the sickness, we had friends to step in and help us with the newspaper, and thankfully we have not failed to print or deliver a single issue.
There are no words big enough, it seems, to express the gratitude we feel.
We continue to keep a positive outlook, recognizing that the Lord has blessed us in so many ways. Clay has been given a good report that he is in “partial remission” from his cancer and we stand on faith that he will continue to receive more good reports.
For all of this — the cards, the monetary donations, the food, the help, and, most especially, the prayers — we are eternally grateful for you.
