My journaling says:
This card is all I have as a reminder of the year we thought we would not have a Christmas. Finances were so tight that year that we were not able to purchase the traditional Christmas meal, and we were facing not being able to provide a single gift for the kids. It was so incredibly depressing to be in such a low state. Christmas dinner and some small gifts for the kids were provided to us because Debbie turned our name in for assistance from Washington County. I went alone to pick up that box of food and it was the most humbling experience of my life. I remember as I walked through the line, I cried the entire time, even as I drove away afterward.
When we showed up for church that Sunday we were blessed again by another box of food! We have no idea who provided it for us. We were only told that we were loved and someone felt encouraged by God to do this for our family. Again, it was such a humbling experience. We didn’t feel worthy of such amazing love! But, God thought differently, as did someone else.
All these years later I still have this card up on my corkboard as a reminder of two things. 1: When we think we are alone in our sorrows and things won’t ever be better, God is there with us and knows exactly what we need and provides for those needs in unexpected ways. 2: To always be thankful for what we have, because it can all be gone so quickly.
I hope that this Christmas finds you in a joyful place and that you are blessed with everything that you need and more. Know that even when things look dark, you are loved more than you know!
xoxo
3 comments:
I remember this christmas, we had no idea what you and dad were going through....we always knew that it was tough for you guys but we didn't know the full extent to it. I just wanted to tell you and dad thank you for everything that you guys have done for me and the boys....you guys did the best that you could and I really appreciate it and admire you guys for what you have done for us=] I love you both very very much......you guys have helped make me the person that I am today and that will always be a part of me.....
Love you mom and dad and thank you again for all of your hard work in giving us kids a shelter, food, clothes on our backs and for loving us!
Love always,
Steph (sis) <3
Oh wow - what an amazing story. I'm so glad the Digi Dare prompted you to put this story down on a page - I'm all teary-eyed now thinking of how blessed you were by the people around you. Thank you so much for playing along with our Digi Dare this week!
I'm close enough to give you a hug! We live in Beaverton...and your page and journaling touched me, then I read your daughters loving words to you and now I've got tears running down my cheek.
You have been blessed in many ways, and this moment in time has made you a stronger person and mother.
Merry Merry Christmas, may it be a wonderful time for you all!!!
♥ Becki
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