Permission to Lie

by | Aug 29, 2010 | Uncategorized

As a care giver, I have little time to care about myself. Life is about doctors, medicine, insurance, paying bills and answering questions. My business is on hiatus, my plans are suspended. Most of the time, I find it difficult to focus on a topic, remember an appointment or think about myself.

I know I look exhausted, worried, stressed and frazzled. Whenever possible, I avoid looking in the mirror. Life is less about me and everything about caring for Laurence. Finding something to wear has little to do with what looks good. It’s more important to find something practical for walking at the hospital and comfortable for sitting for long periods of time.

Telling me I look tired does nothing to boost my fragile sense of self. Telling me I should take better care of myself is one more thing I ‘should’ be doing that I don’t have time for.

You have permission to lie to me. If you run into me, please tell me I look great, even though I look like something the cat dragged in. Remind me what great energy I have, even though I look exhausted. Acknowledge my courage, even though I am worried and scared.

Really, you have my permission. Thank you.

The Bracelet

by | Aug 18, 2010 | Uncategorized

I purchased some bracelets to give as gifts at a little market in Jerusalem when I was there on pilgrimage last year. I kept a pink one for myself. It was a simple beaded bracelet but it had meaning and memories. I was with Laurence on his doctor visit yesterday to OHSU and when we left I realized my bracelet was missing. Going back was not an option. I thought to myself, I am going to trust that my bracelet will be replaced. Don’t know how or when but I know nothing is ever lost in God.

As we were finishing lunch today, my dear friend Pam pulled a little bag out of her purse and presented her handmade gift to me. Not one, but seven beautiful emerald green and sapphire blue beaded bracelets. My missing bracelet was returned in 24 hours. Multiplied. With Love.

One of many signs and wonders that God so graciously provides. A reminder to me to let go and trust God for my good. There is nothing for me to do. Only stand in faith. I am so grateful God is so gracious.

Highest Intentions

by | Jun 25, 2010 | Uncategorized

Yellow roseI received this beautiful poem after a recent presentation. My words were ordinary but Donna’s hearing and willingness to accept were extraordinary. Praise God!

REV. CHRISTINE

You spoke
of the
Divine Self within.

and I paid attention.

You said,
“The highest intentions come from Good.
I come from the highest intentions.
Therefore, I am Good.”

And my long Healing Journey was complete.

On the Wednesday evening
of June 16, 2010
at a Dress for Success meeting
I became a whole person.

A WHOLE person.

It wasn’t just
What you said
but How you said it.

Non-judgmentally,
freely given,
with Caring
and Love.

My long Healing Journey
was complete
that night.

My Life
of Healing
Began.

Thank you
from
the bottom
of my Heart.

Donna Hood LMT 6/23/10

Standing in Faith

by | Jun 23, 2010 | Uncategorized

There was a large family camped out in the ICU waiting room for several days. They were disruptive and noisy while the TV blared and the kids cried for attention. It was the only way they knew how to deal with pain. They were disagreeing about whether or not to turn off life support for their family member.

Sometimes life can cause disruption, noise and often there are too many things calling for our attention. The frustration of not being able to control anything is simply exhausting. We are left to rely on our faith, hope and God’s unlimited love.

Thank you for your continued prayers for us. I know your love messages and prayers are getting through to Laurence and he hears you and feels your love. I know I do.