The Gift

 8-10-09
When I got to work I was told there was a gift for me.  It was in a HUGE recycle bag, sitting in the corner of our health center.  I went to pick it up and it was super heavy.  The day CNA asked me if there was a body in the bag, and I said:  "I don’t know, but it sure is heavy."

At supper, I went and took the card off the bag and read the card.  Here is what the card said:

Dear Carol,
What a beautiful gift you are!!!!!  I am so enriched by several of your talents—your smile and laughter, your truth telling, your faith relationship with God, your commitment to your Church, the youth groups, your friends, the deep kindness and compassion you extended to me in my recovery here–just to name a few. 
I’m praying for you as you adjust to the change of plans regarding your mom in the nursing home.
Thank you for telling me some of your life story and the tremendous challenges you have overcome in your life.
You are a strong, living, testimony of a courageous woman who has embraced her life and become so compassionate and truly loving.  Thank you for gracing my life these months.  With deep affection and gratitude, Sister DL.

This letter made me cry.  Several times I asked God, why me???  His answer came today from other Sisters that knew about the gift.
First I was reminded that I never say "no".  I try to say:  "if I can’t help you, I’ll find someone who can."
Second reminder came on break….I tell the Sisters all the time about how God commands us to Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and spirit and Love your neighbor as you love yourself.  One Sister reminded me of my own words.  Who is my neighbor?
The third reminder came from one Sister that said:  "you deserve more than that my dear.  You are the only nursing staff member that will sit and eat with us, you will join us in other functions and you treat us as if we are all important too you."  I looked at the Sister that was saying this to me and I said:  "You’re important to God.  That makes you important to me."

I wanted to share this with everyone, because our lives speak for themselves.  I am very caring and compassionate.  I know I am, because I don’t want anyone to have to live a life not being loved.  I grew up that way.  I didn’t think anyone cared about me.  Then 2 failed marriages proved it so.  But during my counseling I learned that if I was the only person on earth, Jesus still would have given His life on the cross for me.

You see:
I am loved.  I am loved.
I can risk loving you.
For the one who knows me best,
Loves me most.

I am loved.  You are loved.
Won’t you please take my hand.
We are free to love each other.
We are loved.
Words by Gloria Gaither.