Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Why I Cried


I cried several times this week.

The marriage of a close friend is falling apart.

Some other family friends suddenly discovered that their 2-year-old son has leukemia.

I cried because our world is full of painful things like broken marriages and children diagnosed with cancer. I cried out of sadness, grief, and anger.

I also cried when we received an unexpected card in the mail.

The card was sent to us from the hospital where Alexandra was born almost two weeks ago. This card wasn't just some generic card. Inside were handwritten messages from each and every nurse, doctor, and medical aide who had a role in Alex's delivery and postpartum care. The messages all expressed gratitude and joy at being a part of our family's experience that day.

I cried because after wonderful interactions with the hospital's doctors and nurses, this personal, thoughtful card was icing on the cake. The quality of care and generosity from practical strangers who were a part of our lives for a short (but significant) moment was above and beyond what we expected.

I cried because the messages in the card reminded me that even though this world is full of death and pain, it is also full of life, love, and joy.

5 comments:

  1. agreed, there are many nice things. Indeed.

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  2. oh i just adore this post and such a great reminder. and love the note from the hospital, so sweet and thoughtful.

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  3. Wow! what a week! God is merciful and I truly believe that He only gives us as much as we can handle. There is always molding to be done.

    Romans 5:3-4 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

    I'll pray that you have better weeks to come and I hope all those sad stories become miracles! There is always hope.

    Take care,
    Anela


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    Replies
    1. Thanks, Anela, for your prayer and encouragement. And yes...there is ALWAYS hope!

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