Random Acts of Kindness
09-30-2006
I hope by now that people are realizing their actions do
matter. When something tragic or sad happens to a family or individual, it can
mean the world to them to know that people care. If I had to send out thank
you's for every single
kindness extended our way, I'd have carpal tunnel. Just know that we
are in such deep appreciation to you--and we strongly believe that God
will reward you for it someday. I hope our circumstances make you want to just
keep on looking out for others out there who may be hurting--whether it's a
neighbor or relative or friend or even a complete stranger. You've proven
yourselves to be compassionate people and we thank you for taking time out of
your own busy lives to make ours a bit easier.
I wanted to point out one example of such thoughtfulness
that still warms my heart every time I think about it.
Dave's niece, Autumn, had her
birthday this summer. With her invitation, she enclosed a message stating that
she did not want presents from anyone. Instead, she asked for donations of
money to purchase gas cards for Dave so he could travel to visit
Jaymun. This sweet girl collected over $300 to give to
Dave-money that she could have rightfully spent on herself for her birthday!
I'm not sure exactly how old Autumn turned (12? 13? Sorry, Autumn, I should know this!)
, but I can't believe how mature
and thoughtful she was to think of someone else on her own birthday! We love
you, Autumn! Thank you so much for the gift. I hope
your birthday was the best one ever, because you truly deserve it.
-For all those who have made meals for our family,
we thank you...it's a huge blessing to Dave when he doesn't have to worry about
preparing dinner at the end of a long day. Our children are thrilled to
taste test your recipes!
-To Melodee U., who volunteered to coordinate the meal schedule
and has watched our children countless times, we thank you...you didn't have to
take it upon yourself, but you did. There's no words
to say how much we appreciate you doing this for us!
-For anyone who has given Dave gift cards for gas,
we thank you...it makes driving back and forth not quite as expensive!
-To Jenna H., Jaymun loves his little monkey.
-To the KDS employees, a million
thanks...I know you've all had to adjust things around Dave's absences from
work. I appreciate the fact that you keep things running smoothly for him so he
can take care of our children. And Bob-congratulations to you
and Kelly--I bet Maxwell and Mason are adorable!
-To St. John Lutheran School, we thank you...you make
us so very glad that we send our children to your school. We never have to
worry about them getting a wonderful education because we know you show them
God's love everyday.
-To All Those Who Have Sent a Card, we thank
you...do you know how much such a simple gesture can really uplift a person's
day?
-To Sharon the Bank Teller, we thank you...I can't believe you laugh at Dave's
jokes, but thanks for the bread!
-To Annabelle D.L, we thank you...that
anniversary cake was such a sweet thing to do. Thank you so much for thinking
of us! And by the way, yum!
P.S. Jaymun is feeling much better
today. His fever went away and his food is staying down. He's pretty wiped out
from the last three days, so pray that he gets his energy back again. There are
still many weeks ahead where we need to watch for
infections to crop up due to his low blood count and weakened immune system.
