Today is Wednesday. It is a day in my week where I have the opportunity to meet with people one on one in the context of studying God's work and just being in relationship with others and sharing our lives together.

Sometimes I go into this day with expectations about what will be accomplished or what I or others will learn. Other times I am just happy to be with these women and sharing coffee or tea and a good chat. Usually God has something altogether different in mind than I expected. I come away feeling so blessed and thankful to God for putting women in my life who encourage me and love me right where I am. God has always done this for me. I can look back through all of my life and think of women God sent to influence me.

Yesterday was CarolAnn's (my sister) birthday. I had talked to her on the phone and then was reminded how many times God has used my sisters in my life to impart wisdom, truth, encouragement, love, and fun. They are an incredible blessing to me especially during this time of grief. Sometimes in my life I wished I was closer in age to my sisters, but during this time I believe I am the one who is blessed. Their age somehow draws me to them and comforts me in a way that, although it can never replace Mom, helps me in ways I can't even describe. I am truly blessed. Thank you Lord for the gift of others who love you, and thank you for how you use them to care for me. Good night.