Disappointment and blessings

Chris and I have spent the last year or so preparing and hoping for Chris to go to grad school in England. We were planning to leave in about a month. We are so close, but in the end, it didn't work out. I am confident that it is God's will that we not go at this time. However, it has been bitterly disappointing for me and it took a while for me to accept. Finally, when I was ready to talk about it, I sent an e-mail to some of my family and a couple of my close friends. I was unprepared for the response.

I had several people tell me that we are in their prayers. These are people who don't use that phrase in its cliche form. My sister-in-law said that she was glad her prayers for me were answered in the form of comfort when I needed it. My other sister-in-law shared her personal (and relatable) experience following God's plan for her and her family. Many shared testimonies of God and the fact that he is aware of us--even me. All shared great compassion and caring for us in our little situation.

While I should know that people pray for me (afterall I pray for other people, too), it still surprised me. I just hadn't thought about it before. I have spent this week feeling very buoyed up knowing this one little thing. I feel very loved. I feel God's love for me. I know that it is often through other people that God shows his love for us. Knowing that I am not alone in my prayers makes me more confident in the answer I've received. God is not just answering my prayers, but many people's.

It has also made me a little less selfish in my own prayers. I have so many people who are constantly in my thoughts, but only sometimes in my prayers. I can do a little better praying for those I care about. It's such a simple thing to do, but it is so unifying and powerful. Because this thing is certain: God answers our prayers.

Thank you so much for your prayers and your love. You know who you are. :)