Admittedly, I am running a little far behind in keeping up with the numerous people who could use prayers and a kind thought or two. Although it has been 2 weeks ago, I can not forget about the countless lives that were destroyed in Boston. So many innocent people, doing what they loved; doing something good for their bodies- witnesses to horror like no other. A young boy who had just hugged his daddy who had just finished the race, gone in a heart beat. Countless others maimed and scarred emotionally and physically, their lives never to be the same. Can not begin to imagine sights and sounds of that day. May God put his strong loving arms around those that suffered that day, and will continue to suffer.
Also asking for prayers for comfort and strength for the following people:
A wonderful woman who was Drews first teacher has lost her dad. I can most certainly identify with the pain that is associated with the loss of ones father. Just as I did and still do grieve the loss of my Papa; she so grieves for her dad. She listened to her heart, and to the voice of the Holy Spirit and will hopefully find comfort in knowing that she did the right thing as her dad will forever know how dearly she loved him. Grief, as I have learned, is continual and at least initially; relentless. I pray for her continued strong faith, and for the peace that comes from knowing the next time she sees her dad- they will never again be apart.
I ask for prayers for a sister of a high school friend, who has been diagnosed with liver and colon cancer. A young woman of 44 with four children. I can not begin to imagine her fears, her pain, and feelings of being completely overwhelmed. I pray for her comfort physically, emotionally, and spiritually. As well as prayers for her family.
I ask for prayers for a relation of my husbands. A young man getting ready to graduate in the weeks ahead, quickly diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma. I type of cancer that was discovered in a tumor on his leg. To be that young, and waiting for your "real" life to just begin- and then to have to fight a battle against cancer- seems cruel. He has a wonderful family and incredible friends. I pray that his chemotherapy is successful and that he is able to continue on with all of the dreams and hopes of other young men his age.
Prayers for the family of a young boy, whose life was taken too soon by another form of cancer. He fought bravely through all of the side effects, and treatments his little frame could tolerate. A light for others, a happy and kind soul. A boy with the same plans as other boys his age. I believe he was 10 when he was called home. I pray for comfort and peace for his family; and that they continue to feel his angelic presence in their lives. I am sure that sweet boy has bright angel wings and a big smile.
I believe that has me caught up for now. I am going to try to post more often; as I get forgetful after a few weeks and have to look back at my Amazon orders to remember all who are in need of encouragement and love.
If you know of anyone that is need of a special gift- something to provide them with a sense of peace- please let me know. I am always ready and willing to share God's love to those in need. I just do what I can in my little part of the universe, trying to spread light to others- as they may be inspired to pass it on.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Good books, good feelings, good prayers
Good evening,
I come to you with a thankful heart as I type this. I have so very many blessings, and after reading a new incredible book- have a whole new outlook on what I consider to be a blessing. This last weekend I downloaded a kindle book by Merlin Carrothers titled from "Prison to Praise". I have had a strange fascination with prisons for quite some time, and my views of Christianity have most certainly been honed during the past couple of years. With this in mind I did an Amazon search with the key words of prison and Christianity and this was the result. After reading the incredible reviews, I couldn't help but be compelled to read it. Although I like to read, typically around this household to read even a short book in less than a week is indeed a challenge. BUT I read this book (short as it is), over the weekend! I simply could not "put it down"- per se. It has changed my views on what I should be PRAYING for AND what I should be PRAISING for. I had never thought of praising God for times of sadness and trouble, however through this book I have learned that yes indeed- I should praise God even in these dark times. For even in the darkest of hours, God is working in us and through us to teach us lessons that must be learned in order to become more Christlike. It reminds me of my thoughts last week, about Christ's suffering, and how we tend to complain about such minor inconveniences. If you have the resources I would encourage you to look for this book. Some of it is a little out of my usual "comfort zone"- i.e. speaking in tongues- but that's just me.
On more of a somber note, I do ask for prayers for others at this time-
-Two friends of mine from high school have a young daughter of 20 has been suffering from medical issues which have caused her pain, nausea, weakness and a whole plethora of other unpleasantries. How scary of a situation for her and her loved ones. I hope you will join me in praying for her healing, her comfort, and a speedy return to full health.
-A colleague has two friends who have recently lost their spouses. I pray for their comfort, strength, faith and understanding. Losing a spouse is such a traumatic experience. According to C.S. Lewis I believe, it is an amputation.
-A friend who I have never met, truly I feel like I have always known her; has been seriously ill. She has spent many days in and out of hospitals dealing with a terrible bout of anemia related to an antibiotic. This woman is an incredible mother as well, as she home schools and takes care of her teenage son who suffered a traumatic brain injury; and also cares for her brother who suffers from a form of early onset dementia. I pray that she finally begins to heal, that her weakness and pain subside, and that she can continue to be the incredible person to the rest of the world- that she has shown me that she truly is.
-Another friend who I have never met. Continues to suffer from Multiple Sclerosis, benign brain tumors, financial uncertainty, lack of medical care for her and her children, and the fear of being hurt by an ex-husband. She is working on starting a new life for her and her children in a new place. I pray she is able to sell her house soon, and they will all be able to move together to start anew.
-I give thanks and praise the Lord that my mother is feeling better. Profound grief from the loss of someone you have shared your life with for some 60+ years paired with a viral illness, has had a debilitating effect on my once vibrant and vivacious mother. She gratefully says she is feeling much better. I continue to contact her frequently for updates, as I have NEVER known her to not go to church on a regular basis, and be a prisoner in her own home.
I give thanks and praise for the profession to which I have been called. I so love being an Occupational Therapist, and looking deeply and purposefully into the true meaning and history of my profession's beautiful foundation. Knowing the original definition of Occupational Therapy permits me to look inside a patients soul and psyche to help them find their joy in life again. To help them truly find what gives them a feeling of purpose and meaning. To one patient it may be watching baseball, to another doing word puzzles, to yet another listening and reminiscing to music, while to another it may be reading their Bible everyday. I have researched the role of Occupational Therapy with spirituality, and yes- there are articles written about such a wonderfully profound subject. I love using my skills, resources, and knowledge to help my patients heal not only physically so their body can allow them to meet their daily needs; but to creatively adapt other important pursuits which fill their lives with meaning and purpose. And NO, I will not be getting patients using looms any time soon to weave rugs- although I do indeed see the benefit in that activity. But YES, I will be also addressing more of their emotional needs as I help them to return to a prior level of independence with ALL aspects of their daily life. For in order to truly "live" -we must master more meaningful tasks other than feeding, dressing, grooming, toileting, and bathing oneself.
So, OK- that may have been a little bit of a tangent- but I think it is important to tie all areas of ones being into looking to fulfill their higher purpose. I have submitted my soul and spirit to God so that he may use me to be a vessel of love and hope for his other children. If I am fortunate to do that not only by sending books and praying for those in need, but also helping them feel like their lives have a significant amount of purpose and meaning.
I lastly give thanks and praise, for a person that I sent a book to in order to comfort them at the time of their dear dogs passing. She has graciously forwarded the book on to one of her friends who has lost a dear four legged companion of many years. I LOVE the idea of the books that I send out, continuing their path of providing others with comfort, peace and hope. The more lives that can be positively touched and helped- the better!
Thank you for joining me on my quest. I will continue to do what I feel the Spirit has led me to do, and spread messages of hope, love, and faith to others in need.
I come to you with a thankful heart as I type this. I have so very many blessings, and after reading a new incredible book- have a whole new outlook on what I consider to be a blessing. This last weekend I downloaded a kindle book by Merlin Carrothers titled from "Prison to Praise". I have had a strange fascination with prisons for quite some time, and my views of Christianity have most certainly been honed during the past couple of years. With this in mind I did an Amazon search with the key words of prison and Christianity and this was the result. After reading the incredible reviews, I couldn't help but be compelled to read it. Although I like to read, typically around this household to read even a short book in less than a week is indeed a challenge. BUT I read this book (short as it is), over the weekend! I simply could not "put it down"- per se. It has changed my views on what I should be PRAYING for AND what I should be PRAISING for. I had never thought of praising God for times of sadness and trouble, however through this book I have learned that yes indeed- I should praise God even in these dark times. For even in the darkest of hours, God is working in us and through us to teach us lessons that must be learned in order to become more Christlike. It reminds me of my thoughts last week, about Christ's suffering, and how we tend to complain about such minor inconveniences. If you have the resources I would encourage you to look for this book. Some of it is a little out of my usual "comfort zone"- i.e. speaking in tongues- but that's just me.
On more of a somber note, I do ask for prayers for others at this time-
-Two friends of mine from high school have a young daughter of 20 has been suffering from medical issues which have caused her pain, nausea, weakness and a whole plethora of other unpleasantries. How scary of a situation for her and her loved ones. I hope you will join me in praying for her healing, her comfort, and a speedy return to full health.
-A colleague has two friends who have recently lost their spouses. I pray for their comfort, strength, faith and understanding. Losing a spouse is such a traumatic experience. According to C.S. Lewis I believe, it is an amputation.
-A friend who I have never met, truly I feel like I have always known her; has been seriously ill. She has spent many days in and out of hospitals dealing with a terrible bout of anemia related to an antibiotic. This woman is an incredible mother as well, as she home schools and takes care of her teenage son who suffered a traumatic brain injury; and also cares for her brother who suffers from a form of early onset dementia. I pray that she finally begins to heal, that her weakness and pain subside, and that she can continue to be the incredible person to the rest of the world- that she has shown me that she truly is.
-Another friend who I have never met. Continues to suffer from Multiple Sclerosis, benign brain tumors, financial uncertainty, lack of medical care for her and her children, and the fear of being hurt by an ex-husband. She is working on starting a new life for her and her children in a new place. I pray she is able to sell her house soon, and they will all be able to move together to start anew.
-I give thanks and praise the Lord that my mother is feeling better. Profound grief from the loss of someone you have shared your life with for some 60+ years paired with a viral illness, has had a debilitating effect on my once vibrant and vivacious mother. She gratefully says she is feeling much better. I continue to contact her frequently for updates, as I have NEVER known her to not go to church on a regular basis, and be a prisoner in her own home.
I give thanks and praise for the profession to which I have been called. I so love being an Occupational Therapist, and looking deeply and purposefully into the true meaning and history of my profession's beautiful foundation. Knowing the original definition of Occupational Therapy permits me to look inside a patients soul and psyche to help them find their joy in life again. To help them truly find what gives them a feeling of purpose and meaning. To one patient it may be watching baseball, to another doing word puzzles, to yet another listening and reminiscing to music, while to another it may be reading their Bible everyday. I have researched the role of Occupational Therapy with spirituality, and yes- there are articles written about such a wonderfully profound subject. I love using my skills, resources, and knowledge to help my patients heal not only physically so their body can allow them to meet their daily needs; but to creatively adapt other important pursuits which fill their lives with meaning and purpose. And NO, I will not be getting patients using looms any time soon to weave rugs- although I do indeed see the benefit in that activity. But YES, I will be also addressing more of their emotional needs as I help them to return to a prior level of independence with ALL aspects of their daily life. For in order to truly "live" -we must master more meaningful tasks other than feeding, dressing, grooming, toileting, and bathing oneself.
So, OK- that may have been a little bit of a tangent- but I think it is important to tie all areas of ones being into looking to fulfill their higher purpose. I have submitted my soul and spirit to God so that he may use me to be a vessel of love and hope for his other children. If I am fortunate to do that not only by sending books and praying for those in need, but also helping them feel like their lives have a significant amount of purpose and meaning.
I lastly give thanks and praise, for a person that I sent a book to in order to comfort them at the time of their dear dogs passing. She has graciously forwarded the book on to one of her friends who has lost a dear four legged companion of many years. I LOVE the idea of the books that I send out, continuing their path of providing others with comfort, peace and hope. The more lives that can be positively touched and helped- the better!
Thank you for joining me on my quest. I will continue to do what I feel the Spirit has led me to do, and spread messages of hope, love, and faith to others in need.
Saturday, March 30, 2013
More prayers needed, and apparently my amazon purchasing habits appear strange to others.....
Hello friends,
First I know many of you are already aware of this, but I still find it interesting. A couple of weeks ago I received an email from Amazon. They had noticed that my shipping patterns fit the profile of people that re-sell their books. I emailed them back immediately with a rather lengthy explanation of what I am doing, and why I am doing it; as well as an invitation to visit my blog. I told them that it would take a real creep to re-sell books and make a profit off of topics such as loss, God, and cancer. (Of course I have sent out books on some other topics too, but most of them fit into these 3 categories. ) I quickly got a response stating that my Prime membership was no longer under review. Perhaps they found my activity odd- I most certainly have been called odd a time or two that's for sure. But, all I am doing is following where I believe the Holy Spirit is leading me. At the end of times, what will matter? Will I regret not having a perfect home, perfect car, perfect wardrobe all for the simple sake of helping others in times of trouble? I think not. Would I regret spending my resources all on material possessions that I thought would provide me with peace and happiness only to leave me yearning for something more out of my few dollars? Absolutely! So onward I go.
Here is a list of the people that I have sent books out to since my last post--
A young man of a friend who is suffering from what appears to be sensory issues on top of other potential attention related deficits. My friend is his step-mother. His biological mother does NOT believe he needs any form of intervention; so this poor kid is stuck within his own body and mind that are preventing him from maximizing his potential. I pray for enlightenment and understanding of his biological mother so this child can get the help and intervention that he so obviously needs.
Another friend of mine whose sister in law is battling an aggressive and quick spreading form of cancer. She has young children and a husband, and her days are beginning to look rather few and bleak. I pray for the Lord to provide them all with strength, peace, faith, courage, and love. I simply can not begin to imagine being forcefully thrust into such a scary and uncertain situation.
A new found friend's, friend. This woman lost her long time companion of 16 years, who had faithfully stuck by her side for many years. A dog who provided love not ONLY to her family, but hours of priceless hope to others (including children) serving as a therapy dog. Sadie, who was deaf partially blind and arthritic had accidentally gotten out of her home, wandered very far away and couldn't find her way back. I strongly believe there is a special place in heaven for our earthly companions, and have no doubt that her and here owner will see each other at the rainbow bridge.
A high school friend whose cousin's best friend died in a car accident. I guess I never really gave it much thought or notice how many people find their way to heaven through motor vehicle accidents. I am cognitively aware of all of the numbers, but people are not just numbers. They represent so much more to the ones who are here with us on earth; they represent unconditional love, friendship, laughter, and so very much more. I pray that all of those saddened by such a quick and painful loss- feel the prayers and love from countless others around the country and world.
Another young man who made his way up to heaven during a car accident. He was the brother of a very close friend of someone I know from high school. Again, his young and vibrant life was gone in an instant when the car he was driving was hit by a semi. We celebrate that HE did not suffer, however for those left behind- being unwillingly thrust into the darkness of unexpected loss; is a journey no one wants to take.
A true friend of mine who has been so very ill as of late. She has had numerous procedures with her liver, and been on medications which ultimately left her with a form of anemia. This woman is one of the kindest, and thoughtful people I know. Someone whose very soul is aligned with mine is this broad universe. Someone that has introduced me at a very personal and up close level, to the world of traumatic brain injury. I pray that her days in the hospital battling her own illnesses are over. I pray that her body is healed and she can continue to do what she is most passionate about, bringing joy and caring to countless others through unexpected acts of love and hope.
I ask for prayers for my own mother as well, as she continues her difficult journey of healing. She has suffered much in the past few months since my father passed away. She got ill on the way back to ND, and has been battling illness ever since. My mom is a strong woman, a true servant of God in every manner. She has not been to church or sang in the choir since becoming ill at the end of December; and this lets me know more than anything how very sick she has become. My ever vivacious, energetic, and youthful mom has succumb to illness. I pray that the Lord restores her health and happiness so she can continue to glorify his name through her unending acts of love and friendship. I love her so very much, as do so many others.
I will continue my waterquest, continue to walk the path that I believe the Holy Spirit has chosen for me. I hope that all of you will discover your own personal "quest". Your quest may involve something totally different, but we are ALL here to love and encourage each other- that we may become more like Christ. So do a little bit of "passing it on"- pay for someones coffee at Casey's, open a door for someone struggling with a crying child- do whatever is in YOUR heart to help another. So many little and rather easy acts of love and kindness, could unexpectedly spur someone else to do the same for a loved one of yours :-)
First I know many of you are already aware of this, but I still find it interesting. A couple of weeks ago I received an email from Amazon. They had noticed that my shipping patterns fit the profile of people that re-sell their books. I emailed them back immediately with a rather lengthy explanation of what I am doing, and why I am doing it; as well as an invitation to visit my blog. I told them that it would take a real creep to re-sell books and make a profit off of topics such as loss, God, and cancer. (Of course I have sent out books on some other topics too, but most of them fit into these 3 categories. ) I quickly got a response stating that my Prime membership was no longer under review. Perhaps they found my activity odd- I most certainly have been called odd a time or two that's for sure. But, all I am doing is following where I believe the Holy Spirit is leading me. At the end of times, what will matter? Will I regret not having a perfect home, perfect car, perfect wardrobe all for the simple sake of helping others in times of trouble? I think not. Would I regret spending my resources all on material possessions that I thought would provide me with peace and happiness only to leave me yearning for something more out of my few dollars? Absolutely! So onward I go.
Here is a list of the people that I have sent books out to since my last post--
A young man of a friend who is suffering from what appears to be sensory issues on top of other potential attention related deficits. My friend is his step-mother. His biological mother does NOT believe he needs any form of intervention; so this poor kid is stuck within his own body and mind that are preventing him from maximizing his potential. I pray for enlightenment and understanding of his biological mother so this child can get the help and intervention that he so obviously needs.
Another friend of mine whose sister in law is battling an aggressive and quick spreading form of cancer. She has young children and a husband, and her days are beginning to look rather few and bleak. I pray for the Lord to provide them all with strength, peace, faith, courage, and love. I simply can not begin to imagine being forcefully thrust into such a scary and uncertain situation.
A new found friend's, friend. This woman lost her long time companion of 16 years, who had faithfully stuck by her side for many years. A dog who provided love not ONLY to her family, but hours of priceless hope to others (including children) serving as a therapy dog. Sadie, who was deaf partially blind and arthritic had accidentally gotten out of her home, wandered very far away and couldn't find her way back. I strongly believe there is a special place in heaven for our earthly companions, and have no doubt that her and here owner will see each other at the rainbow bridge.
A high school friend whose cousin's best friend died in a car accident. I guess I never really gave it much thought or notice how many people find their way to heaven through motor vehicle accidents. I am cognitively aware of all of the numbers, but people are not just numbers. They represent so much more to the ones who are here with us on earth; they represent unconditional love, friendship, laughter, and so very much more. I pray that all of those saddened by such a quick and painful loss- feel the prayers and love from countless others around the country and world.
Another young man who made his way up to heaven during a car accident. He was the brother of a very close friend of someone I know from high school. Again, his young and vibrant life was gone in an instant when the car he was driving was hit by a semi. We celebrate that HE did not suffer, however for those left behind- being unwillingly thrust into the darkness of unexpected loss; is a journey no one wants to take.
A true friend of mine who has been so very ill as of late. She has had numerous procedures with her liver, and been on medications which ultimately left her with a form of anemia. This woman is one of the kindest, and thoughtful people I know. Someone whose very soul is aligned with mine is this broad universe. Someone that has introduced me at a very personal and up close level, to the world of traumatic brain injury. I pray that her days in the hospital battling her own illnesses are over. I pray that her body is healed and she can continue to do what she is most passionate about, bringing joy and caring to countless others through unexpected acts of love and hope.
I ask for prayers for my own mother as well, as she continues her difficult journey of healing. She has suffered much in the past few months since my father passed away. She got ill on the way back to ND, and has been battling illness ever since. My mom is a strong woman, a true servant of God in every manner. She has not been to church or sang in the choir since becoming ill at the end of December; and this lets me know more than anything how very sick she has become. My ever vivacious, energetic, and youthful mom has succumb to illness. I pray that the Lord restores her health and happiness so she can continue to glorify his name through her unending acts of love and friendship. I love her so very much, as do so many others.
I will continue my waterquest, continue to walk the path that I believe the Holy Spirit has chosen for me. I hope that all of you will discover your own personal "quest". Your quest may involve something totally different, but we are ALL here to love and encourage each other- that we may become more like Christ. So do a little bit of "passing it on"- pay for someones coffee at Casey's, open a door for someone struggling with a crying child- do whatever is in YOUR heart to help another. So many little and rather easy acts of love and kindness, could unexpectedly spur someone else to do the same for a loved one of yours :-)
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Positive feedback :-)
It is amazing what can happen if you follow your heart, listen to what the Holy Spirit is encouraging you do.
I sent out several books last week, and have received some very kind words of appreciation through facebook. People that I don't know- who have fast become friends. It is incredible what happens when you take a leap of faith you have been led to do. I now have 3 new friends who have already provided me comfort and support with MY losses. Truly as the bookmark reads:
I sent out several books last week, and have received some very kind words of appreciation through facebook. People that I don't know- who have fast become friends. It is incredible what happens when you take a leap of faith you have been led to do. I now have 3 new friends who have already provided me comfort and support with MY losses. Truly as the bookmark reads:
If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.
If you wish to heal your own sadness or anger, seek to heal the sadness or anger of another.
Wise words from the Dali Lama. Words that have become my own mantra in the last few months. Words that have done exactly what they claim. Through trying to provide others comfort, strength, and hope through their sadness and dark days; I have received prayers and love myself. A very unexpected consequence. My goal was to ease other's suffering, by offering them hope; expecting NOTHING in return. And yet, I have been sent many kind "thank yous" and gracious words myself. How incredibly BLESSED am I? Receiving blessing such as these, the most important and priceless gift that one can offer; provides affirmation that I am following the path that I was led to follow. Of course, I love my family and my profession, and my co-workers - but ULTIMATELY at the end of times- what will I have to account for? How I kept my house, how much money did I make, did I drive a fancy car, did I have nice clothes? No- none of these will matter at the feet of the almighty God. What he will ask is did I make a difference in the lives of others, did I try to live my life as a TRUE Christian? Did I try to draw others closer to Him? Was I a willing vessel for his messages of love, hope, and strength to others? Only on that day when I kneel at his feet will I truly know if I have walked in the light of His glory. Till then I will carry on with my quest, trying to provide strangers and friends a like with messages of faith, hope, love, promise, and encouragement. I only pray that when I fall on my knees before Him, I am worthy of his gracious love and a heavenly home for all eternity.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
More comfort and prayers needed....
Good afternoon. What a glorious sunshiney day today- at least in my part of the world :-) Although I do NOT update as readily as I perhaps should; I have continued my quest and sent out many books to hopefully ease others' suffering. Here is a brief summary of some of the people who could use a prayer.
A friend I have known since the pre-school days has lost her father. She had lost her mother previously, and now she and her sisters grieve the loss of her dad.
A woman in Iowa who has recently re-located in order to achieve a better life for her son who has a TBI. She has recently lost her sister to cancer, and with the big move- needs some prayers and re-assurance that although times are tough now- smoother sailing lies ahead.
A woman who has been battling brain cancer for two years. She has a rather difficult time with her ex-husband who has went out of his way to make her life- and the life of her teenage daughter MORE difficult. She is also suffering from medical bills, as there is no longer insurance. Her daughter also needs prayers. She is yet still a teenager and has been in the position of trying to help her ailing mother while trying to navigate the treacherous waters of the relationship she has with her father.
A woman in Iowa who's grandmother was savagely murdered. It is so hard to understand why someone would murder a grandmother. So senseless and very tragic.
I also seek prayers for my own mother. She has been battling an illness since she returned to ND following my fathers funeral at the end of December. She is feeling terrible, struggling to find out what the medical cause of her fatigue, shaking, nausea, and other physical signs are indicative of. She is the rock of our family and the loss of my dad has been very tough on her. For in the best of circumstances, your ex-spouse is not your enemy- but a friend who knows and understands you like no other. THIS I know from my personal experience of losing my ex-husband of 16 years. I miss him AND my dad everyday.
I hope all of you and healthy and happy, and take a minute to pray for others who's lives are in disarray and full of sadness tonight.
A friend I have known since the pre-school days has lost her father. She had lost her mother previously, and now she and her sisters grieve the loss of her dad.
A woman in Iowa who has recently re-located in order to achieve a better life for her son who has a TBI. She has recently lost her sister to cancer, and with the big move- needs some prayers and re-assurance that although times are tough now- smoother sailing lies ahead.
A woman who has been battling brain cancer for two years. She has a rather difficult time with her ex-husband who has went out of his way to make her life- and the life of her teenage daughter MORE difficult. She is also suffering from medical bills, as there is no longer insurance. Her daughter also needs prayers. She is yet still a teenager and has been in the position of trying to help her ailing mother while trying to navigate the treacherous waters of the relationship she has with her father.
A woman in Iowa who's grandmother was savagely murdered. It is so hard to understand why someone would murder a grandmother. So senseless and very tragic.
I also seek prayers for my own mother. She has been battling an illness since she returned to ND following my fathers funeral at the end of December. She is feeling terrible, struggling to find out what the medical cause of her fatigue, shaking, nausea, and other physical signs are indicative of. She is the rock of our family and the loss of my dad has been very tough on her. For in the best of circumstances, your ex-spouse is not your enemy- but a friend who knows and understands you like no other. THIS I know from my personal experience of losing my ex-husband of 16 years. I miss him AND my dad everyday.
I hope all of you and healthy and happy, and take a minute to pray for others who's lives are in disarray and full of sadness tonight.
Monday, February 11, 2013
More tragedy. More loss. More broken hearts.
My friends I come to you with this post with a heavy heart. My son who is only 14 has had two classmates in the past week that have lost their parents unexpectedly. I can not identify with the sense of loss at losing your parent suddenly at 13 or 14 years of age. Losing my dad after his health had slowly deteriorated over the past several years at age 80, I at age 42 have felt such an incredible sense of loss. I don't think we are ever prepared for the loss of our parents, but to lose them at such an incredibly young age, is so unbelievably sad. I also have a heavy heart for those that were in the SUV which crashed killing one of the parents. I know the woman who was driving, she has a huge heart and always a beautiful smile. I fear it will be some time before we see her beautiful smile any time soon. Of the two parents who died in the past week, I knew one. She was so vivacious and full of life. She had a personality that was MUCH bigger than her small frame. She had an inner light and glow which will forever be missed.
Out of my sons small class of some 40 children, 5 of them have now lost their parents. A ratio that is hard to fathom. I find solace and comfort only in that they share the same grief and understanding of the trauma of losing a parent at a young age.
So please, lift these two girls up in your prayers. They need strength, support, love, patience, understanding and faith above all else. Please pray also for their families and the others involved in the car accident; for to survive such an ordeal will leave wounds that will be with them for a long time.
Out of my sons small class of some 40 children, 5 of them have now lost their parents. A ratio that is hard to fathom. I find solace and comfort only in that they share the same grief and understanding of the trauma of losing a parent at a young age.
So please, lift these two girls up in your prayers. They need strength, support, love, patience, understanding and faith above all else. Please pray also for their families and the others involved in the car accident; for to survive such an ordeal will leave wounds that will be with them for a long time.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
OK- Let's Get Down to Business and Do Some Praying to Help Those In Need
Alright, now that I have a LITTLE bit better control of my grief- I thought I would update everyone on those I have sent "gift packages" to in the past 5 weeks or so. That way, hopefully they will receive more prayers and more healing. I hope you can find a few moments in your day to say a prayer for them. For we are all vulnerable, we will all have our own sadness, we will all have our own pain, we will all have our own fears, and there WILL come a time in your life- when YOU need a little help too. It is the nature of life. We all have good times and bad; ups and downs. The only thing constant about life is that it is NOT constant. In the end what matters is that we help each other the best we can while we are hear. For when we are gone, it will be too late. Okay- so here we go----
Prayers needed for a gentleman who was just diagnosed with brain cancer stage four at the beginning of December. If he wouldn't have had radical surgery before the end of December- he would have been gone; and would have left behind a beautiful wife and 2 boys- 14 and 12.
Prayers for another gentleman who had problems with dizziness and feeling poorly- only to find out he also had a large tumor in his brain. Although they were able to do successful surgery and it doesn't appear to be cancer, he had several scary days in the hospital- and now faces chemo and radiation with lung cancer.
Prayers for yet another young gentleman with brain cancer. A lovely person who was an angel of mercy and saved another person in desperate need of medical help.
Prayers for a lady friend who continues to battle ovarian cancer; and as a consequence of chemo has lost her hair. The sad effect of chemo on women and men who value their appearance; HAS to be very depressing. I feel so sorry, as their body struggles to manage the chemicals needed to essentially kill off other cells within them.
Prayers needed for a childhood friend who recently lost her father. From first hand experience, losing a parent is a VERY tough loss.
Prayers for two friends from high school who are also mourning the recent loss of their parents. I guess its a consequence of all of us getting older; we are at the place in life where are parents are graduating and moving on to much more glorious and beautiful places. Although we know we should be happy, we can not help but be sad at the thought of never hearing their voice on the phone/ getting a warm hug/sharing a laugh at a treasured memory/celebrating all kinds of holidays with them and the whole permanency of death. We must remember that we will again see them and then we will NEVER be apart again.
Prayers for another person who I will never meet. This young woman's sister was diagnosed with breast cancer on a Thursday, and passed away before midnight on Friday. She had little more than 24 hours on this earth before she went to be with Jesus. With her sudden and unexpected passing, she left a devastated and shocked family. The road for them with their grief will be very difficult. I pray they find comfort, hope, strength and grace in the books that I sent out to them.
Prayers for another family that I will never know in Montana. They suddenly lost their son who was but 18 in a snowmobiling accident. Such a young life, just beginning; now gone in an instant. Leaving behind in the wake of this terrible loss, a family who will struggle many a day as they walk this road.
Prayers for another family that I will never meet. They lost their mother/wife in a tragic accident when the life-flight helicopter she was flying in (as a nurse), crashed unexpectedly. Her loss has left behind several grieving children and a whole community who admired her.
Prayers for 2 dear friends who through 2 sets of different circumstances have been left without jobs. Most certainly although they know- it is because He has much bigger and better plans; the sting of uncertainty and unfamiliarity is not welcome. I have faith that they are destined to do much bigger and greater things in the future, and they will both be happier and live the life that they so richly deserve.
Prayers for another young couple that I will never meet- as their precious little infant went to be with Jesus in January. A sweet little baby who had fought so very hard for some perhaps 4 months. I cannot imagine their pain.
Prayers for my OWN family as my mother, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, my children and countless friends of his mourn the loss of my father. He was a great man, he never knew an enemy or stranger. We are all better for having known him, and I shall miss him for all my days.
Thanks for your time and attention. If you know of someone who is suffering from a loss, whether be job related or something else, and they could use a little encouragement feel free to message me on facebook. I will do my very best to send something that will be meaningful to THEM. For not all of us believe the same things, not all of us appreciate the same things, not all of us enjoy the same things; but we could ALL use a little support and caring from one another.
Margo Dierdorff
Prayers needed for a gentleman who was just diagnosed with brain cancer stage four at the beginning of December. If he wouldn't have had radical surgery before the end of December- he would have been gone; and would have left behind a beautiful wife and 2 boys- 14 and 12.
Prayers for another gentleman who had problems with dizziness and feeling poorly- only to find out he also had a large tumor in his brain. Although they were able to do successful surgery and it doesn't appear to be cancer, he had several scary days in the hospital- and now faces chemo and radiation with lung cancer.
Prayers for yet another young gentleman with brain cancer. A lovely person who was an angel of mercy and saved another person in desperate need of medical help.
Prayers for a lady friend who continues to battle ovarian cancer; and as a consequence of chemo has lost her hair. The sad effect of chemo on women and men who value their appearance; HAS to be very depressing. I feel so sorry, as their body struggles to manage the chemicals needed to essentially kill off other cells within them.
Prayers needed for a childhood friend who recently lost her father. From first hand experience, losing a parent is a VERY tough loss.
Prayers for two friends from high school who are also mourning the recent loss of their parents. I guess its a consequence of all of us getting older; we are at the place in life where are parents are graduating and moving on to much more glorious and beautiful places. Although we know we should be happy, we can not help but be sad at the thought of never hearing their voice on the phone/ getting a warm hug/sharing a laugh at a treasured memory/celebrating all kinds of holidays with them and the whole permanency of death. We must remember that we will again see them and then we will NEVER be apart again.
Prayers for another person who I will never meet. This young woman's sister was diagnosed with breast cancer on a Thursday, and passed away before midnight on Friday. She had little more than 24 hours on this earth before she went to be with Jesus. With her sudden and unexpected passing, she left a devastated and shocked family. The road for them with their grief will be very difficult. I pray they find comfort, hope, strength and grace in the books that I sent out to them.
Prayers for another family that I will never know in Montana. They suddenly lost their son who was but 18 in a snowmobiling accident. Such a young life, just beginning; now gone in an instant. Leaving behind in the wake of this terrible loss, a family who will struggle many a day as they walk this road.
Prayers for another family that I will never meet. They lost their mother/wife in a tragic accident when the life-flight helicopter she was flying in (as a nurse), crashed unexpectedly. Her loss has left behind several grieving children and a whole community who admired her.
Prayers for 2 dear friends who through 2 sets of different circumstances have been left without jobs. Most certainly although they know- it is because He has much bigger and better plans; the sting of uncertainty and unfamiliarity is not welcome. I have faith that they are destined to do much bigger and greater things in the future, and they will both be happier and live the life that they so richly deserve.
Prayers for another young couple that I will never meet- as their precious little infant went to be with Jesus in January. A sweet little baby who had fought so very hard for some perhaps 4 months. I cannot imagine their pain.
Prayers for my OWN family as my mother, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, my children and countless friends of his mourn the loss of my father. He was a great man, he never knew an enemy or stranger. We are all better for having known him, and I shall miss him for all my days.
Thanks for your time and attention. If you know of someone who is suffering from a loss, whether be job related or something else, and they could use a little encouragement feel free to message me on facebook. I will do my very best to send something that will be meaningful to THEM. For not all of us believe the same things, not all of us appreciate the same things, not all of us enjoy the same things; but we could ALL use a little support and caring from one another.
Margo Dierdorff
Monday, February 4, 2013
Time does fly- no it hasn't been fun :(
I do apologize as I have not posted it appears since Christmas. My mind and heart have been heavy this past 5 weeks as I lost my beloved Papa on December 30th. I am so grateful that I got to have him here in Grundy Center with me during his last 5 weeks. He moved into the long term care unit of the hospital that I work in- so I was easily able to see him everyday. We started a routine whereas I would visit him after I got off work at 5:30. I would go down to the long term care unit- we would listen to his Anne Murray CDs (he loved her so I got him some CD's seemed to calm him down). I would feed him his evening snack of icecream and then give him a massage to his hands and arms and wipe his face and head with a cool cloth. I sure enjoyed spending that lil extra hour and a half with him. He had spent the last 20 years living up in North Dakota in Devils Lake. He lived at Woodland Resort and was the Campground Host- a title he was so very proud of. So, although I have been very close to my father since I turned 12 and decided to move to Missouri to be with him; while he was up in ND- I generally only saw him twice a year due to the distance. So to have him here with me was so incredibly nice. When my sister and I brought him down to the VA hospital in Iowa City before Thanksgiving- we knew he wasn't well. When he came to Grundy Center- I knew he wasn't well. When he was first hospitalized in Grundy, I knew he wasn't well. When I took him for his video swallow- and he could only handle pudding thick liquids without aspirating (food going into his lungs instead of his stomach)- I knew he wasn't well. When he was hospitalized in Grundy- then at Allen in Waterloo- I knew he wasn't well. And the very day he died- I knew he wasn't well. BUT- in the end- none of that has eased the pain. I have lost my forever hero- one of my best friends- one of the people who loved me and understood me the best in the whole world. More than ANYTHING I wanted to be there when he died holding his hand and telling him how much I loved him- more than ANYTHING I NEVER wanted him to die. So we are on the "grief-go-round". My version of a merry-go-round. You may go safely up for a while as you turn the circle- only to find yourself back down. Just as all of the grief books I have read in the past 4 months have stated- grief is NEVER a linear process. But, one day at a time- one foot in front of the other- we go on- for we really have no choice.
I will post more tomorrow- for although I haven't been posting on here- I have been very busy praying and sending out numerous books to people in need. Tomorrow- I will post a brief summary, so if you would like- you can join in and pray for others along the way too.
God Bless You where ever and who ever you are- for you are loved- you are cherished- and you are everything to someone in the world. We ALL are.
I will post more tomorrow- for although I haven't been posting on here- I have been very busy praying and sending out numerous books to people in need. Tomorrow- I will post a brief summary, so if you would like- you can join in and pray for others along the way too.
God Bless You where ever and who ever you are- for you are loved- you are cherished- and you are everything to someone in the world. We ALL are.
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