No Coincidence

Something really cool happened to me yesterday.

I don't believe in coincidence. Sometimes I'm pretty amazed that things can line up perfectly in order for one particular moment to happen. I can appreciate how amazing that is, but I believe that God orchestrates our lives. Sure, we decide our own paths but as Proverbs 16:9 says, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."

For the past several months it has been so wonderful for me to find some very special friends through this blog. I've been overwhelmed at the level of caring I've received from people who are also hurting. You guys have reached out from beyond your own suffering and formed a circle of unwavering support around me. You know I don't throw the word "blessed" around carelessly, but I truly feel blessed lately to have such wonderful family and friends. In the past few weeks I've received some beautiful gifts and tokens of friendship in the mail from some extra special friends. I know that many of you pray for me, which is the most you could ever do to show that you care! I appreciate all of the comments, emails, and words of encouragement that you send to me almost daily. It's incredible, and it shows me how our God can make something beautiful grow out of a circumstance that is pretty awful.


Ok, back to the something cool that happened. Earlier this week I was reading over at Tammy's blog about a trip she was taking with her husband this week to an unidentified town. You should know that Tammy and her husband Mark live in Wisconsin, which is quite far from where I live down here in the Lone Star State! Putting my sleuthing skills to good work, I figured out from her clues that their travels had brought them to my part of the country - in fact, practically to my backyard! After I exchanged a few emails with Tammy, Chuck and I drove approximately 5 miles away from home and met Tammy and Mark for coffee. Amazing, right? You might say the Lord determined our steps yesterday! That was the first time (but hopefully not the last) that I was able to meet one of my blog friends in person. It was a brief half-hour visit that felt more like 5 minutes, but it was a great time of fellowship and it truly refreshed my soul. I am so relieved that you guys really do exist!


Here's a photo from our short time together: (that's me on the left and Tammy on the right)


Tammy, I know that what brought you to my neck of the woods wasn't just a fun vacation, but something that was difficult for you. I appreciate you taking the time to spend a moment with us! It was so great to meet you and Mark in person. Thanks for being such a great supporter on this journey. I'm praying for you, especially today.

I just know this was a meeting that was no coincidence.