Last Tuesday night was a special treat, Kathy and I had dinner with Doreen and Carlton. Kathy had known Doreen way, way, waaay back, when they were teenagers. It’s been 30+ years since they have last talked to each other. For me this was my first time to meet Carlton and Doreen. But, when we met it seemed like we were old, familiar friends. We sat back shared a nice dinner together and spent the night talking and enjoying each others company.
Doreen is one of my angels. She came out of nowhere after hearing of my diagnosis through a mutual friend. She regularly emailed us words of prayer and encouragement. Through our emails of support back and forth we have developed a very warm friendship. The amazing part about Doreen is as she is supporting me up in prayer and e-correspondence, she is struggling with the life changing impact of a major illness herself. Doreen has been recently diagnosed with cerebral lupus, a very rare form of lupus. It is only the 3rd case that her doctor has treated, leaving one to worry about his expertise on this matter. In addition to struggling with the lupus, Doreen also has to deal with the harsh effects of chemo and steroids used to keep the lupus in check. If that wasn’t enough the lupus has piled on all sorts of food intolerances. She now has to avoid chocolate, oats, dairy products and gluten – anything derived from wheat. I find it incredible, with all that she had on her plate, when she heard of my news, she reached out to me, a total stranger. But, to meet her, is to understand why. She is that kind of person.
When you face such a mountain of uncertainty, your world changes. You no longer share that fundamental cornerstone in life here which everyone else takes for granted – a future. It forces you to walk a different path separate from the others. Although you are in the midst of people, the uncertainty leaves you feeling isolated, alone.
This is where those care packages of compassion - the cards, notes, invitations – can do so much. They are hugs of care that unravel the isolation, messages that others are with you on this path, if only for a moment, sharing this journey with you. You don’t necessarily need to tell them they will be healed or that everything will be alright – it often isn’t and they know it. Just be sincere and honest, let them know you care. You do not even need to be an acquaintance. One of the nicest surprise moments were when complete strangers have written to let me know they care. Please remember this when you encounter the next traveler that shares a similar fate. Don’t underestimate the power you possess to help them. It is far greater than you imagine. Each moment you share with them is moment you walk with them on their path. This is something I want to share with you. An insight I’ve gain from my vantage on the other side.
Be brave. Trust God.
Remember, He works in many ways and you may be His angel to give comfort to another on their journey.
Remember, He works in many ways and you may be His angel to give comfort to another on their journey.
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