Nothing to complain about

Recently I did what I said I would never do... I joined FaceBook.

But I did it in hopes of connecting with someone very specific who basically has whatever it is that I have (you know... same symptoms, issues, etc) and wanted to, uh- network? [LOL] But when I did I found old friends whom I hadn't seen in (lets just say) a few years. That was fun and a surprise- but sadly I found someone that I hadn't seen in only a few years- a young man.

When I was well and healthy and active I taught Sunday School forever and this little guy was in my class, my kids choir and I watched him grow-up. Little guy? He is not so little any more. He was a gorgeous child with a dark complexion, biggest brown eyes and always a smile... mostly because he was also mischievous! [wink] A heart-breaker waiting to happen.

The last time I saw him he was filled-out and sporting some pretty intimidating dread-locks [LOL]. But the big guy gave me a hug when he saw me.

Only today we connected on FB and my heart broke. Not because he still has the dazzling smile and killer eyes- but because that little fellow that loved my class as a child is a young man; a soldier in Iraq.

And I just kept looking at the photos he has/is posting on his page from there and thinking of all he has to be going through; all he has seen; all he has done and my thought was you (Joy) have nothing to complain about.

No- it's true. I do have much to deal with; more than some and less than others. But this young man and so many other young and old men and women are elsewhere in the world facing physical enemies; facing physical wars. The enemy I face; the war I am in is physical as well- but there are no guns, bombs and tanks involved. The battle I have takes place in my mind. I fight to overcome the pain and disability. The battle he is facing involves his very life... as well as others that are with him.

I am not thankful for my battle or struggles- but I am thankful that I know where I will lay my head this night. I know that when I wake up my family is here and close. That breakfast has been served and lunch prepared and dinner will take place later. I know that I don't worry about whether or not an enemy will cause harm or death in my home or that I will have to evacuate at any time. I have so much to be thankful for and little to complain about. Just my health- that is all; and I remind myself that the same God that I go to and depend on to help me through this battle is the same God who watches over those who are facing war in Iraq... El Shaddai, the God who is more than enough; and I say thank you God. Thank you.

Dear God,

You are so good and so wonderful. I appreciate your protective presence and look for the warmth of your Word. I ask that you continue to be with those in this world who are facing battles on everyday; battles with man and battles with the flesh. Give us all encouragement, guidance and reassurance in dealing with the enemies that are placed in our path that you are well able to carry us through.

I give thanks for your mercy, love, salvation and hope.

In Jesus Name, I pray- Amen.