My Sweet Friend

This past week has seen multiple trips to the hospital to visit my dear friend, Virginia. She is more than a friend to me -- she is family. Often when you meet a person, the connection takes time. But, sometimes, if you are blessed enough to meet someone special, the connection is just already there waiting for you to arrive. That is how it was like for me and Virginia. Our relationship began over the phone, really, because Virginia was homebound at the time we became acquainted. We were working together on our church's phone prayer chain. Those phone conversations were always something to look forward to, and before I knew it, I had a very special lady in my life. All that was left was to meet face to face!

As her health improved, Virginia was able to start attending church. That first day seeing her in person was like coming home. What a hugger! And since then, Virginia has always remained such a special part of our family. And lucky me -- I got to be part of hers!

There are some obvious differences between us two friends--our age, background, and, yes, our color. These differences never mattered to either one of us, in fact, I always felt they enhanced our relationship. It always brought a smile to my face to hear Virginia introduce me to someone (even a member of her family) as her "white daughter." And she is that second Mom to me (my own Mom doesn't mind a bit), and she is also Granny to my kids.

Life is not easy for Virginia--hasn't really been for quite a while. But never have I met anyone who has such a quiet strength, a loving spirit, a giving heart, and a mouth full of praise at all times. This is a perfect example of the power of Christian witness: Last week, when Virginia was admitted to the hospital after a heart attack, she was advised to have risky open heart bypass surgery. The situation was serious, and Virginia was rightfully afraid of what was coming. One of the hospital staff who was involved in her care said to Virginia, "I want what you have!" The staff member was referring to Virginia's faith! In the middle of a storm in her life, Virginia was still finding a way to lead those around her to the Lord--and isn't that the greatest thing any of us can ever accomplish?

Since her surgery, Virgina has suffered two strokes. The road to recovery for her will be tremendously long and difficult. It is so hard to see this beautiful, shining woman of God in such a broken and vulnerable position--unable to move on her own, to gaze at the ones she loves, or even to speak most of the time. And so, what can I do but follow her example? I must and I will continue to place my dear Virginia in the hands of our Lord, for only He can restore and heal. And, as important as it is for me to trust God in this season, I know Virginia wants for me to never cease in praising Him, even now. This is how Virginia lives her life--in God's hands, ever-praising--and this is the greatest lesson she has taught me.