MEMENTOES
"And Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deed." Hebrews 10:24

      One morning as I sat at my desk and cried, but not because I was sad.  I was overwhelmed with feelings of being loved by God through so many friends.  You see, my file drawer was so stuffed it was difficult to put another thing in there.  So I looked through the headings to see which file was causing the problem.

      I found it!  MEMENTOES, I pulled out a big pile of cards and notes began reading them.  The tears rolled down my face as I read the notes expressing love and encouragement.

      Then the thought struck me, how can I possibly feel lonely when so many friends care enough to write all these loving messages to me?  Suddenly it dawned on me, each one of these messages was like a hug from God.

      Feeling humbled, I bowed my head and prayed, "Oh Lord, forgive me for grumbling about my lonely hours.  Help me through this time of adjustment since my husband went to heaven.  I know You are always with me.  Help me learn to be content and get on with the things You have called me to do.  Help me to reach out to others with encouragement just as I have been lifted out of despair by kind notes, letter and cards from friends."

      I placed all these mementoes in a box to save.  Another time, when I'm feeling lonely and depressed, I will reread them--and probably cry again with joy.

      God shows His love in so many ways.  For this time in my life He has blessed me with many friends who are praying for me and encouraging me to look to tomorrow with hope in my heart.  I am truly thankful.  Praise God for His unfailing love! His mercies are new every morning!