The Amazingness of People

Long, Lost Friends:

There are friendships in life that remain despite miles and miles of separation and years and years without real communication. 

Harv used to be a river rafting guide in his younger days with some people that are just like that. They shared amazing experiences and experienced rivers full of stories. I don't know much about rivers except that they flow and they can sometimes be fast and dangerous. Some are clear. Some are murky. According to Harv, a wild rapid in a river is followed by a calm pool. The slow-moving, quiet water is a welcome rest after a bumpy ride through the rapids. On commercial rafting trips, the pool gives the guides some time to "collect themselves" (paddles, floating gear and sometimes passengers.).

One of Harv's former rafting buddies sent Harv a note today that includes the passage below. "River wisdom," Harv says.

"Life is a river, Harv (from one guide to another), sometimes there are obstacles that you have to get around, and a few bumps along the way.  But the energy of the river always finds its way through.  You may feel like you've fallen out of the boat, a bit out of control, but your family is your life jacket, they will help keep you afloat and your head above water.  So face downstream, follow that flow, maybe close your eyes and hold your breath a bit through the bumps and splashes, and you'll come through fine.  We'll see you in that deep, green pool below the rapids."

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 Children: 

I HAVE THE BEST GIRLS IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD!!! They are aware of all that's happening. They are strong and loving and supportive. They are a little bit scared, I think, but they are coping well, I do believe. I am thankful for the support that they have in their friends and youth leaders. I've sent messages to their teachers and am so thankful for the supportive response I've gotten from them, too.

They have cried...and I'm pretty sure they will cry again. But, they've also laughed and helped us laugh, too.

Blessings, indeed.

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Friends Close by:

For the second time this week, we have found packages at our door from local friends who didn't want any recognition for the love they shared. One was a delicious plate of yummy cupcakes. Today's package was a package for our road trip to Seattle tomorrow.  And people show support and love with food and walks and calls and visits and prayers. 

Truly, cancer stinks, but if there's anything about this situation that's good, it's the AMAZINGNESS of the love we continue to receive. It's indescribable. It's a gift. And, one that isn't always easy to receive.

Thank you all for showing love to me, Harv, Celeste, Sarah and Hannah.  We love you back!