Yet frequently is has not been enough, not nearly enough, for this aching soul. Until this week.
I have a very dear friend who has walked by my side every single step of this arduous journey. Actually I have many dear friends who have done so, but this woman in particular has had special insight because she, too, has suffered many medical maladies in her life. She understands the physical, emotional and spiritual pain, medical treatment, medical bills and the blues associated with a chronic illness.
I cried tears of sorrow and lamented to her as I began my injections. She was sympathetic, compassionate and more importantly, always pointed me to purpose in Christ. She never chastised me or made light of the situation yet at the same time refused to allow me to wallow in pity over it or despair to the point of emotional paralysis.
Now she finds herself in similar predicament, beginning injections for her own health issues this week. As I read her email detailing what is coming up for her, I wept. Not because I pity her but because I understand it like so few others can. My heart throbs with pain for her. I know the emotional roller coaster....the fear...the sadness...the despair...the physical pain...every single thing she will experience I have already experienced--and survived.
I have been uniquely qualified, for such a time as this. In her journey I get a glimpse of one of the reasons I am on this road. It is for my dear friend. God, in His omniscience, sent me ahead and just as she walked with me, I now get to be that source of human strength for her.
Although after thoroughly reading her email, I'm not sure she really has need to lean on me. Read an excerpt of her beautifully written words:
I am thankful, and have a bedrock of faith in God for the outcome. I know that He is my healer...and I'm definitely asking Him to heal me through this. If He chooses not to...I must be faithful to thank Him for the experience, and trust Him with whatever comes next. We must trust in the darkness, what we know to be true in the light, amen!
These words likely help you understand why this woman is so special to me and how it's been possible for me to feel encouraged and uplifted in a very difficult season of my life. She was uniquely qualified as well. My friend has an amazing resolve and undeniable faith but should she falter, I will be there to steady her as she trudges forward.
Uniquely qualified...what a beautiful gift and preparation for our earthly journeys from our Creator, from the one who knows the beginning to the end.
We were not meant to walk alone and for that I am eternally grateful.
