Your Story Matters

I sat in the waiting room at a doctor's office last week for a routine check-up and was reminded of the sheer volume of patients that a doctor sees each day. Our favorite doctors for the girls make a point to listen thoroughly, to know our children and their unique needs, and to talk through what is best for moving forward. That said, it can sometimes feel as though you are one in a sea of patients.

One of our heartbeats at helloHOPE is the truth that "your story matters." This can really flesh out in a community setting when you have an amazing support system. There are times, though, when you can still feel isolated and disconnected.

Last month we had the privilege to love and serve families in our city who have been displaced by medical adversity. We had an amazing team of ladies who helped us prepare and serve dinner to families who have children in the PICU at a local children's hospital. Another solid group of guys and gals helped us prepare and serve dinner to families who are staying at a local Ronald McDonald House while their children are undergoing treatment at a children's hospital. All of our hearts were welled with compassion for the people we served, and we so treasured the opportunity to talk with some about what their journey has looked like.

We took a few minutes to reflect with each of our volunteer teams after our time was over, and we all agreed how powerful it was to see the relief on the faces of the families. In that moment of walking up to receive a home-cooked meal, they were seen and knew that they were not alone and that their story matters.

That is truth to stand on. Whether you are wading through endless needs of little ones, you can't imagine logging any more hours at work this week, you are searching for answers to symptoms for your child, or you are on a long journey of medical adversity, know that your story matters. God has numbered your days and sees your every moment. He has purpose for you and longs to fill you with His power to accomplish all He has for you. He sees you, He knows you, and He loves you. Your story matters because you are part of His.