Blessings...and Southwest Airlines

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." -James 1:12

I leave for Houston today, and Christian read the verse above to me this morning while we were in carline (Chris has been having the boys read the Bible Gateway Verse of the Day each morning on the way to school). What a beautiful verse that captures the very essence of being a cancer survivor. Mrs. Barbara is persevering daily and blessed because of it. The outpouring of love from family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers has been so encouraging and uplifting. Here is one such example...

Before I fly out this afternoon, I wanted to give a big shout out to Southwest Airlines. Last week, Chris spoke with their Customer Relations department about flights to Houston. He explained the situation and since we were less than a week out, flight prices were pretty expensive for the 3 of us to fly. The very kind agent gave Chris a phenomenal deal on the tickets and was very compassionate, but we needed to discuss with Mrs. Barbara and Coach first. It was decided that it might be a good idea to have their vehicle in Houston, in case her stay goes beyond just this week, so they decided to drive. I called the Southwest agent back on Friday to book my plane ticket, and she pulled up the earlier conversation. I explained that I understood if they could not honor the price they gave us because I would not even be traveling with the patient, but she quickly told me it would still NOT be a problem. I was given the ticket at a GREAT deal with a fare that can be changed anytime under the circumstances, but that wasn't the end of it. She was kind and supportive and compassionate and told me that she would keep our family in her prayers. Her kindness brought me to tears. Her gift in that moment was a much needed one...I was humbled and grateful. It is sad that these behaviors in our interactions with people, especially those in large companies, come as a shock to us. However, it is a testament to our hunger for compassion and understanding and to the fact that it does exist. God IS all over this journey,as we're seeing his love pour out of so many people that we know and don't know.

So, Heavenly Father, I pray that as we faithfully love You on this pilgrimage to healing, that others see Your love and light in us and that with Your strength, we can persevere this trial before us. Thank You for all of the blessings you have already given us. Your grace is amazing! In Jesus name I pray. Amen