Being Thankful, Even When It's Hard

To be honest, this has been a bad week.  It’s been a week where children have died.  It’s been a week where we have failed a new mom and her newborn.  It’s been a week where the realities of Haiti have seemed too much.  It’s been a week where as much as I wanted to, there was nothing else I could do.  It’s been a week where God chose not to step in, even though I thought He should.

It’s been hard.  It’s been long.  I’m tired and I’m sick, yet neither of those changes anything that has happened.  As I was dwelling on what a rough week it has been, God reminded me of how much I have to be thankful for.  That’s what I want to focus this blog on. 

I am thankful for two successful weeks of surgery.  Overall, 85 major operations and over 30 minor cases were completed.  Not only were physical needs met, but every patient was also prayed over and poured into.  What an opportunity that is.  My Aunt Debby was there for the second week of surgery! I am so thankful she was able to come and see a little of what my life is like as well as pour into her patients. 

I am thankful to be surrounded by children who love me even when I don’t deserve it.  There is so much love on this campus.  Between the orphanage, the Miriam Center, and the nutrition program I am showered with hugs and kisses everyday.  For Valentines Day, the preschool had a party where they all dressed up.  I loved being a part of it!

I am thankful to be in a country where I can openly share about the gift of God.  Even if my message was rejected, I can only pray that seeds were planted. 

I am thankful for the continuous opportunity to learn, for both myself and the staff here.  We have had many opportunities to learn these past two weeks from nurses, doctors, pastors, and so many others.  We also made some mistakes this week and learned from them. I am thankful though that we were able to make changes for next time.

I am thankful that so many people loved Owens.  His death hurts so many, but also shows how loved he was.  I am thankful for all the people that poured into him his last couple of weeks and tried to help as much as possible. 

I am thankful for Lovemicka's life and the eternal impact she had on so many.  I am thankful that she is no longer in pain and is rejoicing with our Savior. 

Most of all, I am thankful that this life is only temporary.  I am thankful that there will come a time with no more suffering or pain.

Revelations 21:4 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  Thee will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”