Special Kindness

Imagine recently moving into west Houston, a transplant from over 1,000 miles away, not knowing a soul, trying to establish new roots for your growing family and then being faced with a medical crisis! Our three year old was a handful, my husband was traveling a lot on business and my 2nd pregnancy became complicated when a blood clot formed in my leg. I was admitted to the hospital for a week and sent home with orders to keep my ankle elevated above my heart for 4 months. Needless to say, we were suddenly forced to make dramatic changes. Fortunately we'd formed friendships in our neighborhood and at Living Word and received much needed help with prayers, meals and childcare. At first it was difficult being on the receiving end. I am an independent person and take pride in being self-sufficient. But God taught me several important lessons. I remember turning to a neighbor and saying, "How can I ever repay you for your help?" She responded with: "You will help someone else in a similar situation. That's the only "repayment necessary." I also learned that it is easier to accept help when the giver asks: "When can I bring a meal/run errands?" etc. rather than "Can I bring over a meal?"