My niece is reading through a devotional of Rumi poems; I think I would probably enjoy that as well. I had started a couple of other daily devotionals this year, but neither one was insightful or interesting so I set them aside. (I was proud of myself for not feeling I had to finish them just because I had started them! ha).

Recovery from the surgery is going well, but the original pain still comes and go at will. Trying to be patient with God and with myself on the healing process. 🙂 Thanks for your prayers, Jean!

Yes, I’m with you, Debbie—when we don’t give grace to ourselves, we’re not showing joy to others. Good point. Hoping to do better with that very thing today.

I am finally feeling better, Beverley. Thank you for sharing earlier this week that healing is more than physical. That gave me much to ponder on.

Thanks for your prayers, Ginger. God has been showing me favor the past several days with relief from some of the pain so I’m grateful!

Your encouraging words are very appreciated, June. Truly. You have a way of staying positive no matter what. Even in the midst of your own pain. I’m sorry that you’re having health issues and I pray that you’ll be able to find relief soon. Self-care is often difficult when it’s not what we’re accustomed to doing but even old dogs can learn new tricks. 🙂 I have definitely felt more relief myself the past few days; praising God for progress! Thanks for your prayers, friend.

I’m touched by your words, Andrew. It’s been a blessing to me to hear your words so often, to get your perspective, to know that you’re out there still listening and responding and making a difference in our world.

Since we’re speaking of Vietnamese society…I’ve been reading Thich Nhat Hanh’s book “How to Love” and ran across that exact thing you’re speaking of! (I love how God works in repetition.) He says, “Reverence is the nature of our love.” Our partners always deserve our full respect just as we would accord a guest, regardless of how long they’ve been in our home.

And yes, we do need to apply that to ourselves as well. I know you’ve had a tough week. Praying you can find some relief today.

Thanks, Sheila. I am feeling better now, praise God!