Little Women Treasures: September 2008

This weekend, Tom and I attended a MS conference in Lake Placid, NY. It was a wonderful weekend as we spent time with 25 couples who are facing many of our same challenges . The greatest joy was meeting 2 Christian couples who share similar life circumstances: the husband has MS, the wife is a stay-at-home mom, and the children are homeschooled. Let me tell you, we were all happy to find each other.

In one of the sessions, the couples split up as the folks with MS went into one room and their partners went elsewhere to have a discussion. (Actually, we went outdoors to the hotel courtyard to enjoy the glorious, sunny day.) The discussion showed me that my own challenges and fears are not at all unique. As a matter of fact, they are common to almost every person who has a mate living with MS.

As helpful and encouraging as this time was, it was a sad time for me too. I was saddened with the ways people spoke of how they cope with their difficulties. There were two reoccurring themes. First, find something that makes you happy, such as a hobby or a job and have your "me" time. Secondly, find people to help you in the difficult times. Both of these points are very true. I know. I enjoy those principles almost every day in my life. But if that is the only place where my strength is found, I will be let down and disheartened often.

Psalm 46:1,2b

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.... " This is where the Christians hope is centered, the God of the universe. Any other principles I learn are just icing on the cake. My hobbies and friends, my husband and children do bring me great joy. Praise God for these comforts too. But my hope is built on Jesus blood and righteousness.

Yesterday morning, as I read my email, this quote was sent to me in a devotional. It is by Joni Erickson Tadda:
People with disabilities are God's best visual aids to demonstrate who He really is. His power shows up best in weakness. And who by the world's standards is weaker than the mentally or physically disabled? As the world watches, these people persevere. They live, love, trust and obey Him. Eventually the world is forced to say, "How great their God must be to inspire this kind of loyalty."