Keeping Company

Wow January 1,2024.  This is the year that I turn 65.  So I will have better insurance.  Thank you Lord for your provision this year.

I learned some big lessons this year.  I learned that I am actually getting too old to take chances with my health. I spent the better part of the summer in the hospital with my husband, and with casts on both arms.

I can’t believe that I am once again looking at a bunch of weight that needs to come off.  I got way off track when Allen spent so many weeks in the hospital, and then the holidays came and I added more weight.  I am so sick of myself in this area.

But there are only two alternatives.  1.  Start again with healthy eating and exercise, 2. Stay fat.  Opting for number 1. Again. 

So, today I took a long walk with about 30 other folks who were celebrating the life of a member of their group.  His name was Terry Binkley and his wife Dana, wanted some company on what used to be their annual tradition.  A nice brisk walk on New Year’s Day. It was really great, and I feel like I made some new friends. People honked from the highway, and one person released a bouquet of balloons in honor of Terry. 

Many of you know, that I always choose a focus on Jan 1 for the upcoming year. I ask Jesus to give it to me. Otherwise I will just be focusing on what my brain thinks is important. I think I have received my focus for this year.  Accompaniment.  I am being asked to see people.  And to accompany them in whatever they are going through.  My new friend Dana is my first one of the year.  I loved walking with her and hearing her stories about her Terry.  We both took joy in the knowledge that when he died, he did not stop living.  He just moved on to the next level.  He still exists.  With none of his illnesses, or flaws or worries, or griefs.  Whole and complete because of his relationship with Jesus.  And that he is in Dana’s future.  Not lost.  But waiting for her to come some day and join him. 

What an honor to help her carry that today.  And to be reminded for myself, of the gifts that I have been given. And that nothing on this earth lasts forever. So I need to soak them up.

So I am really looking forward to this assignment.  Lord, help me not to forget.  Not to get so caught up in my own stuff, that I forget to look for the ones who could use a listening ear.  A smiling face.  Company on the journey.  Oh man.  So looking forward to this!

The pictures below are of some of the folks that walked together today. I am thinking I have some new friends.