i know many of you straight away wanted to complete that sentence with . . . "until its gone" ..... *beeep* wrong answer.
i learned this week, you dont know what you have until you take a moment to open your eyes and appreciate it.
This week has been the Christian Arts Festival . . . this week has been one of the most difficult weeks of my life. [Those of you who receive my prayer updates have a glimpse into some of the goings on.] . . . so much opposition from within and without. . . so many random things going wrong. . . so many of us letting our own characters get in the way etc etc... and on top of it health issues.
its a time of feeling like i was floundering and in the midst of it all a kidney stone decided to make its presence felt. [yes i thought they had all gone] . . . and took me out of action in the last days. . .
i remember lying on my neighbor's couch, where i slept a few nights while sick, and thinking . . . "i should be feeling sorry for myself but i am in too much pain to care." and in the very next moment. . . i knew that wasnt true . . . i wasnt feeling sorry for myself because i was so overwhelmed with gratitude for my friends [and family] who had stepped in and carried me and this event in so many different ways.
the ones who arent in this nation but upheld us and the event with prayer [and event fasting].
the ones who sent through text messages and emails and facebook moments asking how it was going.
the ones who supported it financially.
the ones who rejoiced in the salvations and small victories alongside me.
the ones who gave up work to come and volunteer where needed during the festival.
the ones who ran themselves ragged running errands and driving too and fro.
the one who got off a plane and walked straight into being an active organiser even though they are not involved in the Art Center at all . . . and then later proceeded to pick up all my responsibilities when i was sick.
the ones who talked me down out of my moods when things went wrong.
the ones who made me laugh. . . when i wanted to cry.
the ones who let me cry.
the one who came for a holiday and to meet people but instead ended up serving.
the new friends who served, sang, played and danced their hearts out for the sake of the lost.
the ones with the comforting arm around the shoulder when things failed, in the beginning.
the ones who kept coming back to the shows just to show support.
on and on and on this list could go . . . . yes it was my most difficult week. . . yes a ton of things went wrong. . . yes i am tired of being sick . . . but yes its been one of the most beautiful week as i stand truly amazed at the friends God has brought into my life. . . they are a true treasure and delight . . . and i am truly grateful.
so i would just like to say THANK YOU!
