Since this ordeal began, last spring, Tony and I have had a lot of support from neighbors, friends and family. I think I would be hard pressed to find another family who has been given as much as we have in the way of visits, cards, meals, e-mails, comments on this blog, prayers and financial help. Everyone has pulled together to help Tony get well and help our family get through these dark days.
This past week, I have gone out to run errands just 3 times. During two of those outings I have run into people that know our situation. Both times I have gotten hugs, tears, prayers and after arriving home, found money in my purse. One friend tried to pay for my (huge) grocery tab while I was checking out. I was able to circumvent her efforts, only to find the money in my purse after she left.
The mailman delivers cards that cheer us, nearly everyday. Lovely written words fill the cards and I read each one to Tony.
Yesterday I found a beautiful package on my porch from Bob and Betty Nease. A perfect devotional book and a gift card to Claro's. I think Betty or Bob read my blog and found out that Tony loves Claro's! I now read a devotional to my husband each morning, when he wakes. I found flowers on my doorstep last week. No note to say who they were from, and that's not the first time.
There are so many other things that have happened, things that have been said and done on our behalf, but there is not enough space to write it all down, here. I have expressed our love and gratitude many times on this blog. What I want to express now is just this: Those of you who say my glass is always half full, that I see the best in people....and that I walk around with rose colored glasses on....you may be right. However, I have a lot of evidence to support my point of view.
Dear Tony and Patrice-
ReplyDeleteWe are still praying for you everyday.
Your courage and faith still continue to amaze us.
Thanks for all the updates.
Hope we get to see you soon...
God bless your whole family-
Love Rae and Bob Dickinson
So, I guess you're getting the idea that we ALL love and cherish you? As someone very wise always says, "Just deal with it, Patrice!"
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Dear Patrice, Tony, Michael and Vanessa,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for inviting me in on behalf of my family to give my blessings, share my thoughts and chat a bit with Tony. I know how frequently you are answering knocks at your door (case in point with the family I walked in on that wasn't allowed past the entry). I was humbled by your grace, and the strength and conviction in your faith. Leslie sends you her prayers. The boys wished they could visit, but I thought it was best to leave them at my parents due to contamination. Just know that Tony is the first prayer they make at dinner, as well as when we settle into bed for their story time. They truly have Tony in their hearts, and that just shows the kind of people you all are, and how much you deserve all the love, compassion and generosity that comes your way. We will continue to pray for Tony's health and strength to improve both at home and in our church home group. We love you and hope to see you again soon. God Bless all of you.
Love,
Matt, Leslie, Tyler & Trevor
I have a friend who prays for you daily. She asked me if you know what an encouragement you are to others? She wants you to know that your faith during these trying times is an inspiration to others. Know that there are people out there praying for you, her children included, though you may not know them. You are SO loved, SO cherieshed, and SO covered in prayer. Can't wait for your phone call after the doctor gives you excellent news! Love to you all! xoxo
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