A Life of Gratitude

I walked into the Infusion Center this morning, just like I do every 6-8 weeks for infusion therapy, when I noticed a beautiful Willow Tree figurine on the receptionist's desk. This particular "angel" stood out to me because I recently purchased the same one as a gift for several dear friends. It represents "Bringing a triumpant spirit, inspiration, and courage." I pointed out the figurine to the receptionst and asked, "That one is a symbol for courage, correct?" She looked at me and said, "Yes, it is, and I desperately need courage today." As soon as our eyes met, I felt God say, "Pray for her." She began telling me that her father-in-law just passed away last week, her mother has been battling stage 4 cancer, and her step-dad was just diagnosed with cancer as well. I asked if I could pray for her and with tears in her eyes she accepted my offer. As I prayed, she wept.  She thanked me repeatedly for praying and then said, "Tod...

It is very rare for me to look at a photograph of myself and see something I like. I typically find every single flaw, point out every little wrinkle, and deem the picture ugly because I don't like my weight. Even if someone else says a picture of me is pretty, I have a hard time believing them.  When I look at this photo however, I actually see something beautiful.  I could still pick it apart and find things I don't like but I haven't allowed myself to do that because this image reveals something much more valuable than the way my hair looks or my size.  When I look at this image, I see the goodness of God. I see someone who was once dead but is now ALIVE. I see someone who once wore a shroud of shame but now wears a robe of righteousness. I see someone who used to be terrified to share her story but now allows God to use her biggest regret to help others find healing. I see someone who cannot help but praise her Heavenly Father. This photograph screams HEALED, WHOLE, A...