This past week has been one surging mass of emotions for me, like the entire country. My heart breaks and aches for those dealing with the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. I know I am not alone in feeling helpless and wanting to do more than just donate money. My prayers and thoughts are constantly with these people and their families. Another part of me is so grateful and humbled by the amazing outpouring of generosity for the victims of Katrina. I have seen a banding together of virtual strangers (people only known to one another via Internet communities) pull together to help the friends of a friend's friend. I cry when I see the photos and footage of people waiting in dispair for recuse. I cry when I am able to donate some items that a family who lost everything has desperate need of. I cry when I thank God for the many blessing he has given me and that I am able to enjoy while so many others have lost so much.
And yet, while there is great sorrow and heartache, there is still joy to be found. My sweet newborn niece is one of those joys. Mother and child are healthy, home and doing well. I am thrilled to be an aunt again and can't wait to begin spoiling this little one. Our family had the chance to visit SIL, DB & new DN in the hospital. My DD was awed by her tiny new cousin and has talked about the visit ever since. She can't wait to see her cousin again soon and asks "when her play me?" And there is yet more joy for my heart - my sassy, silly, sweet, energetic, loving, cuddly, cranky, independant, clingy, wonderful 2 1/2 year old little girl. I just can't think of anything sweeter, more joyful or awesome than having DD throw her arms around my neck and start singing "I Love You!" Or my DH suddenly rushing over to us and wrapping his arms around both of us and singing along with her.
Life is too precious, too fragile, not to thank God for the simple things: family, friends, love and joy in the everyday.
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