Just a Word of Thankful Praise

The past couple of weeks, I have been in what I like to call a health rut.  I feel sicker than normal, which I'm afraid makes less of joy to be around since the illness tends to put me in my vegetative state.  However, today, though I am still physically sick, I feel more than a fruit than a vegetable! :-)  Christ referred to a tree (me) planted by water (the Word of God) would bear fruit.  These fruits can be patience, perseverance, compassion, self-control, peace, joy, and more.  I am thriving on peace today.  The sun is shining and my toes are out, and I can feel my burdens melting away.  Though I feel sicker than ever, I know God has me right in the palm of His hand.  I so grateful that He has given me this internal peace and strength to continue each day.

I honestly don't think that I could survive this illness without my parents.  I can't sleep in my bed at night due to the overwhelming nausea, so I have to sleep in the recliner in the den.  Last night my parents argued over which one would sleep on the couch in the room with me so I wouldn't be alone.  Almost every night that I have to sleep in the chair, Mom or Dad is right there with me.  They sacrifice so much for me, and I know that the love they have for me comes directly from the Heavenly Father.  I can't ever thank God enough for the wonderful family He has given me.

I am also thankful for Christopher Gatlin Carnley.  He has stood by me truly through thick or thin.  It seems sometimes that he spends more time lying and waiting outside my bathroom door than having fun with me.  His nurturing nature comforts me when I'm down, and his great sense of humor keeps me smiling.

God has given me more than I can ever ask for in the people He has surrounded me with.  Thank you, Father, for blessing me with caring family and friends!  Thank you for the much needed warm sunshine today!  I can never thank you enough.  Even though I am not worthy, take me, all of me, and use me for Your glory!  I love you, Lord!