Twas the week before Christmas, and money was tight.
I'd had many a tearful and sleepless night.
Worrying and wondering how I would get us through.
When it occurred to me that sorrows lessen when carried by two.
I lay down my pride and with tears in my eyes.
I began to share with others the fears in my life.
I rambled on about money and sorrow and stress.
I admitted that sometimes it all felt like a mess.
I spoke of the pressures of raising children alone.
And my desire to provide them with a safe and loving home.
Each time I poured my heart out to friends.
I could feel the sun light on my face once again.
The struggles carried on, as they typically do.
But the load was much lighter when carried by two.
Or three. Or four.
And then there were more.
Because some friends shared my plight with friends of their own.
And letters started arriving with senders unknown.
Blank pages. No words. Wrapped 'round a monetary treasure.
I was bestowed with great love that could not be measured.
I had peace in my heart as I tucked my kids in.
It was becoming easier to hope once again.
I'm grateful for the money that paid up our bills.
And more grateful for sharing the tears that did spill.
I shared them with my daughter as I spoke of God and prayer.
And the willingness of people to reach out and show they care.
We can choose to lean on others, or walk about and mope.
It's a risk to be vulnerable, but it also inspires hope.
Appreciative and humbled, I thanked God above.
Though we may live a simple life, we sure are rich with love.
Of all the treasures we could have, love is the one I truly cherish.
Everything else could be stripped away, but love.....it will never perish.
When darkness comes knocking upon your door, I'll tell you just what to do.
Embrace it with hugs and tears and truth.....and let me be there for you.
