THANKFUL THURSDAY

“At times when our own light goes out and it is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. ” - Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)

I think Thankful Thursday will always be my favorite day to post. I have so much to be thankful for, but really don't we all? There are many places I could go with this topic today, but after I read this quote I received in a daily devotional, I decided to dedicate today to a very special friend.

Today I would like to thank the Lord for Tonya Nason. Over 2 years ago, we meet through Caringbridge. For those of you that are not familiar, this website was set up to keep loved ones and friends informed during illnesses, treatment, and difficult times. It is a great place to give and receive support, comfort, and prayer from many people.

I am not exactly sure how I stumbled on to her son’s (Brent) site, but it was one of those "ah ha" moments for me. She was so BOLD in her faith for the Lord, so passionate about her love for Jesus, and her humor during the most difficult days of her life, captured my heart! During that time in my life, Jordan had just completed his radiation treatments for a brain tumor, and was on a 3-month check-up routine. Brent and Jordan were both patients at St. Jude Hospital in Memphis. When I met Tonya, I was in a real dry place in my walk with Jesus. My candle was burning dimly until it was reignited by Tonya's passion. Yes, like the quote above so perfectly expresses, her spark rekindled my faith, my zeal, and excitement for Jesus again.

I am just so grateful that I found such a wonderful friend in Tonya, and had the chance to share a time with her amazing son Brent, who is now sitting at the feet of Jesus. I learned so much as I watched them fight their battles so bravely. Yet despite all of this, Tonya continued to encourage me and hundreds of others, as she became so transparent in her walk with Jesus.

I would like to end with a poem I recently found, and I want to dedicate this to my friend Tonya on this Thankful Thursday.


As we walk our path of life,
We meet people everyday.
Most are simply met by chance.
But, some are sent our way.

These become special friends
Whose bond we can't explain;
The ones who understand us
And share our joy and pain.

Their love contains no boundaries.
So, even when we are apart.
Their presence enhances us
With a warmth felt in the heart.

This love becomes a passageway,
When even the miles disappear.
And so, these friends, God sends our way,
Remain forever near.


Proverbs 17:17 says "A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need." (NLT)

Thank you Tonya Nason for being that friend to me!