Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, reading Proverbs 17:22: "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine," was a reminded of long ago when several of us gathered over at C.B.'s house. (Just for fun, initials were used instead of names.) C.B. was getting up in years, so J.L. would invite several friends over; she may or may not bring cookies. C.B. always had tea or coffee about ready for whoever was coming. K.D., housekeeper for C.B., was usually there to "help" with a treat. Once seated around the small kitchen table, C.B. would give a short prayer of thanksgiving. Then the tête-à-tête (chitchat) ran from A to Z, from neighbors to relatives, interesting weather, who shoveled snow for them, and now, what holiday was coming up next. Oh! Yes! Valentine's Day - this Sunday?!?

Quickly, J. L. jumped up and dashed outside - the gals looked at each other like, What? In a minute she brought in a box of heart shaped cookies frosted with red frosting. All were totally surprised when K.D. began to sing, "Love Lifted Me"; a few even joined in. That was so special.  Most of the group there, were all getting a bit old, so D.B. quickly quoted a Bible verse, Isaiah 46:4: "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  Did you hear chuckles? Of course, you did.

This gathering together didn't happen often, but when it did, what a great opportunity to spend time together. Each one in this group had elderly relatives who received special attention as these gals continued to share their love and care. What a beautiful experience to be blessed with an opportunity to show loving care to someone we loved.

Love, Mara