You Never Know

We needed another post...I know.  Truth is, things are pretty much the same around here.  No news is good news, right?  Mom is doing phenomenally well.  She is in good spirits, and rounding the bend with this whole radiation thing.  She even said the other day she's got a little hair growing back.  We're proud to report there is regrowth!  :)

Because I'm writing the post, excuse me for getting a little personal.  I've just thought so much about some things lately and had to share.

The other day, Mom called me in tears.  She just had to share something special with me.  And then she went on to read a letter that had been written by a dear friend of mine.  And by the end of it, we were both so touched we could hardly speak. 

On front of card:  "Happiness must be grown in one's own garden."

Inside: 

Dear Katie's Mom,
Well, that's how we have been praying for you.  We don't know each other but I adore your daughter Katie so much and feel that so much of what I love in her is from you.  I've really enjoyed reading your blog and have found strength from your example, faith, and optimism--to be a better mother to six little boys, and to just grin and bear it during the trying times.  Thank you.  Please know that a few Alaskans are praying for you.

With love and admiration,
Stephanie W. Bacon
Tenderness!  You never know the extent of one's influence!  And in my case with my Mother it extends to the very tips of the branches of her mother tree, and to the tender roots--running deep.

Another friend's mother sent a card to my Mom early on that has continued to be so touching to me.  She's never met my Mom.  And I've never met her.  But the love in this card was bursting.

The card read:

Cancer is limited. 

It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot destroy peace.
It cannot kill friendships.
It cannot destroy memories.
It cannot silence courage.
It cannot invade the soul.
It cannot steal eternal life.
It cannot conquer the spirit. 

Dear Gayle,
Your daughter is a friend to our daughter, Heather Price Smith.  Please know how much "others" care about you and what you are going through.  It is heartwarming to see the tremendous love your family has for you.  Best wishes.

Love,
Jerry and Shari Price

You never know...