Some days are longer than others...

I didn't read my 'Jesus Calling' yesterday until late last night, but as always, it had something to say.

"Be on guard against the pit of self-pity...don't even go near the edge of the pit...there are several ways to protect yourself from self-pity. When you are occupied with praising and thanking Me, it is impossible to feel sorry for yourself. Also, the closer you live to Me, the more distance there is between you and the pit. Live in the Light of My Presence by fixing your eyes on Me. Then you will be able to run with endurance the race that is set before you, without sumbling or falling."  (Jesus Calling by Sarah Young)

I am not one to wallow in self-pity and am thankful for that, yet sometimes this journey seems longer than others. I know it is nothing compared to what many face, and most days by God's grace, I can see 'the end' no matter how far away it is and find many things to do and be thankful for in the midst of it. Other days, not so much. This new chemo is better in many ways, as I have said. But it has definitely bothered my legs. 3-4 days of pain, and this week, my legs are just weak and achy. I need to make sure I take my time (what else is new these days!), get my feet under me when I get up, and I just have to watch where I am going. I have not had any of the neuropathy yet, except some tingling in the soles of my feet. But, I'm just not as steady. That's why yesterday's message meant so much to me. He has given me a race to run. He has given us ALL a race to run, and we need to run it well...I'm not exactly running right now, but still need to keep focused on Him, His purpose in this, and draw near to Him to do this well and keep moving forward. I certainly can't do it well on my own. And I don't want to be stumbling and falling, literally or figuratively - grace is not exactly my middle name under 'normal' circumstances!

So, onward and upward, whatever the pace.  :)

Psalm 89:15-16

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, LORD.  They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness.

 

Hebrews 12

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Thankful thoughts:

• 2 dear friends who came to clean for me. What a blessing!  One even gave up her lunch hour.
• The beauty of Spring sneaking a peek around...I see daffodils beginning to emerge, hyacinths peeking out, and it excites me!
• The meals we have received. Such a continual blessing, and so yummy. I don't know if anyone truly understands what a gift they are. Energy levels being what they are, I think we would be surviving on cereal without them!
• Fresh, warm laundry - therapeutic in its own right
• Daughters that can be such good medicine. Together, they are like a comedy routine and just bring such joy!

Thanks for your patience and consistency in reading this. I don't always take the time to write as often as I would like. Dont' always know that I have a lot to say, so I just stay quiet. But, I value your time and thoughtfulness in keeping up with me. Your friendships are such a gift to me!

The pictures to the side are of some of my visitors to my favorite birdfeeder. Enjoy!