Even the Roses Have Thorns - A Thankful Thursday Post

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says, do not fear, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

On this most memorable day in history, I am slightly awed that seven years have passed since the terrible events of 9-11. I think often of those families, their children born during that time, the same age as our Emily. I think of their sacrifice, many unwilling participants in a fate they had no idea was upon them. And, of course, I find myself thankful for so many reasons. Most of all, I am thankful for every man and woman who make it so that we are free and look to ensure we are safe.

This week has been an emotionally challenging one. On Saturday, I was just going into the dentist to begin a root canal I was dreading. My mother called, upset. Very upset. Her cousin's son, whom I have mentioned here before (Jeremy)was back in the hospital and yet, again fighting tongue cancer. Jeremy is younger than I and has a beautiful wife and two beautiful little boys. He will heal, he will get through this, but the struggle they have to endure is tiresome and scary at best. The beauty of this time in his life has been touched by the thorns and I hope you will join me in lifting him and his family as he gets well.

Just before that occurred, I received a phone call from a dear friend, who left me a message to call her back. I was pressed for time, so I called and quickly left her a detailed message about her son's upcoming wedding and the bridal shower we would all be attending. She was calling to tell me that unfortunately, neither the shower nor the wedding would be taking place, as his fiancee decided that this was a vow she could not take. I spent time with him on Sunday, and though he will be fine, it will take time for him to heal and cover over the places where the thorns have invaded.





And this, our little rose, attended her first preschool class on Wednesday. She was a champion, marching down the hall, attitude fully adjusted and going straight to her favorite toys upon arrival. I assured her I would be back and I slipped out of the room. I felt like a heel. She did very well. When the teacher opened the door, they were seated at the table with their backpacks on. Hannah was one of the first called and she bounded into the hallway and jumped into my arms, and yelled, "Mommmmmy!" (insert huge smile). Some of the other moms who had endured the wait alongside us, filled up as they watched. She says she wants to go back next week. Thank you, God for building trust in our family, for helping Hannah (and Mommy) to be brave and for speaking in that still small voice to my heart that she could do this. We will take each week as it comes and continue to pray that she likes and wants to go to her playgroup.

What I was not expecting about this experience was the flashback it would give me. I suppose this was my very own thorn this week. When Emily was two, attending the same class, in the same room, we had a very difficult year. To protect my own heart, I have blocked much of it out, but the sight, smell and even the pattern on the curtains brought back this wave of grief I was not prepared for. That was the year our son was stillborn. That was the year I suffered a terrible depression. It was a very, very hard year.

The blessing about grief is that sometimes it brings about change. And so in reliving some of the moments from that year, I discovered that was also the year we began our adoption. And as beautiful as a precious rose, it comes full circle with our little girl home and now two years old. I am thankful for the hardships, the grief, the pain. God carried us through and He knew His plan was far greater than anything I could have dreamed.

Finally, I am thankful for friends, both cyber and real-life. A passing word, an encouragement or acknowledgement, these people reach in and touch our lives. This week, I am especially thankful for Michelle and Stefanie. Michelle was one of several people who emailed regarding our family photo and removing our lady friend from Rob's shoulder. Thank you to all of you, who had suggestions or offered to assist. With all that Michelle has on her plate (two gorgeous daughters included;), she took some time to correct the picture and email it back to me in lightning speed. Thank you Michelle for showing such kindness. Visit her blog to say hi, you will be touched and amazed by this beautiful family.

And Stefanie...she nominated our blog for a bloggy award - humbled and grateful about sums it up. You can visit Stef and send her some love, she is an inspiration, a warm and wonderful woman with so many gifts. She is a daughter of the King and the mama to eight (no, not a typo, eight) magnificent children. She continually inspires me with her humor, truth and devotion to that which is most critical in life. Simply put, you rock, Stef.

What are you thankful for?