Well, it's official. I'm out of survival mode and into coping mode... and I'm not doing so great with the coping. BUT, I have been beyond blessed by some amazing people in my life who are 100% with me and for me in this battle against food. First, my wonderfully caring husband. Anytime I'm feeling down about the things I've lost because of Celiac he is there, not only with a comforting word and a big hug, but also with the voice of reason that keeps me grounded in those times. He goes all out in trying to protect me, not only from that evil culprit--gluten-- but also from feeling abnormal. I also am feeling ultra blessed by my BFF, Emilee. She is always there to listen to me whine about my current mopey state and offer an encouraging word. She is there to be angry with me when I'm sick and be hopeful with me when I have a stretch of good days. Also, I am very blessed by a few little kiddos who don't have a clue what Celiac is, but they know that I have tummy troubles and are willing to brush their teeth, wash their hands and eat strange foods to keep my belly from hurting. I am also thankful for Rob's family and mine who are trying to learn how to protect me when I come to visit. I am very thankful for my aunt and uncle who have some experience with Celiac and used their grandson's birthday party as a chance to teach others in my family how to prepare food for me. I am thankful for our friend Neil who has been very sensitive to the demands of Celiac. He has offered to vacuum out his car so I don't get sick, make foods for a Christmas party gluten free so that I can partake too and worked with me to create alternatives of meals for me.
As much as this journey sucks sometimes, God has surrounded me with wonderful, supportive, uplifting and encouraging people. I've been pretty focused lately on feeling bad for myself and on the things I am going to miss out on in this upcoming holiday season... but today I realized that I have awesome people around me and I need to be more thankful for that. So, to all of you who have put up with my whining, tried foods you didn't really want to, made yourself uncomfortable in order to accommodate my needs, or any of the numerous other acts of kindness I experience on a daily basis... THANK YOU. I appreciate you and your support.
Phil. 1: 3-6
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Love,
Sam
:)
ReplyDeleteLove you!