Thank you to my Friends

I’m often reminded of the blessings of friends. This year with my leg in a cast for 3 months, my husband unable to drive due to a previous stroke, and a new book releasing, friends have become an even brighter light in my life. From taking me to doctor appointments, to taking me out for a meal, to helping me promote my book, so many have pitched in and said, “I can help.”

I sometimes remember the quote from “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Clarence the Angel reminds George, the man who has dealt with one struggle after another and wants to give up on life, that “no man is a failure who has friends.” I have never understood those words more than I have this year. The more difficulties I have faced, the more the Lord has provided friends to help meet my needs. Praise God!

I’m the kind of person who loves to be a giver. I am a retired nurse and helping others seems to come naturally. Being on the receiving end is humbling and I’m learning to have a meek spirit and accept other’s kindness. It’s not always easy for me, but God is teaching my “take-charge” personality to be still and submit to the situation. It has allowed my wonderful friends to shine.

As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” By allowing my friends to help me, they are doing good works that shine with the love of the Lord; that allows them the gift of receiving a blessing.

I’m so grateful that God is blessing them, although I admit, I’d still rather be on the giving end.

But in this month of Thanksgiving, I am so very grateful for my many friends who shine with the love of Jesus. According to Clarence, I guess I am not a failure. I know my friends certainly are not.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Scarred Vessels released on October 20, 2020 and is available on Amazon in kindle or paperback.

Here is the Back cover blurb:

In 1778 Rhode Island, the American Revolution rallies the Patriots to fight for freedom. But the slavery of black men and women from Africa, bartered for rum, is a travesty that many in America cannot ignore. The seeds of abolition are planted even as the laws allowing slavery in the north still exist.

Lydia Saunders, the daughter of a slave ship owner, grew up with the horror of slavery. It became more of a nightmare when, at a young age, she is confronted with the truth about her father’s occupation. She is burdened with the guilt of her family’s sin, as she struggles to make a difference in whatever way she can. When she loses her husband in the battle for freedom from England, she makes a difficult decision that will change her life forever.

Sergeant Micah Hughes is too dedicated to serving the fledgling country of America to consider falling in love. When he carries the tragic news to Lydia Saunders about her husband’s death, he is appalled by his attraction to the young widow. Micah wrestles with his feelings for Lydia while he tries to focus on helping the cause of freedom. He trains a group of former slaves to become capable soldiers on the battlefield.

Tensions both on the battlefield and on the home front bring hardship and turmoil that threaten to endanger them all. When Lydia and Micah are faced with saving the life of a black infant in danger, can they survive this turning point in their lives?