My Big Family

The last 3 weeks I have been so impressed by my "big family". Not the huge extended family I was raised so close to, but the big family of friends and relatives around me. The outpouring of love and support is truly amazing! I am one of those people that reluctantly accepts any type of service. I need that from my Mom of course, but I have this stubbornly independent attitude that makes it very difficult for me to accept any kind of charity from others. I am always happy to give however I am needed, but receiving has always been difficult (again, from everyone except my mom - sorry mom!). However, during the last 3 weeks I have really needed it. And no we do not "need" food (I do not cook anyway!). But what I have needed is love and support and friendship. And I am not really a needy person in this way. I had no idea how hard this experience would be on me. I am not the one in the cast, so how could it be hard on me? But it is. I hate seeing my child in pain. I hate seeing my child unable to do things. I hate seeing my child so sad. I hate these things, because I am helpless to change them. With that said, there is very little I can do. However, the one thing that makes Mya happy during this trial in her life is the visits from family and friends. And of course this makes me happy too. Apparently we are more socially needy than I once thought! :)

In our church there is a great deal of service and charity available anytime it is needed. I always used to feel like this service was robotic, like when you have Home or Visiting teachers over and they have to ask the required, "Is there anything we can do for you?" Does anyone ever say yes?? This time in my life I realize that it service is definitely not forced. Because you can feel service in your heart. You know how sincere it is. You can feel love and support in the calls, emails, and visits. I have had so many amazing friends and family by my side, offering meals, comfort, company, treats, books, markers, toys, play dates, and so much more. And again, my Mom. I could not live with out her during my normal life, so you can only imagine how much I have needed her lately. I have the best friends and family a person can ask for. I never realized how much I need them and how much I appreciate them. I cannot thank them enough or give back enough to show how thankful I am for it. But I am here for them, and always will be. I guess that is what being a big family is all about - just being there for each other - "willing to mourn with those that mourn..comfort those that stand in need of comfort". Thank you for all the comfort and love!