Apples of Gold

Like apples of gold in settings of silver Is a word spoken in right circumstances. (Proverbs 25:11)

Fall is here, and apples abound. Our September meeting was full of apples. We had apple pie, apple crisp, apple bread and apple cake.

We also enjoyed

"apples of gold" from our guest speakers: Pastor Don and Sue Boldt. It's so exciting when God brings a word that is "spoken in right circumstances."

Don and Susan lost their 13-year old son, Peter, to cancer over a decade ago. They understand the journey through loss and spoke elequantly to the Lord's unfailing love.

"I had to learn how to trust God with my unanswered questions." Sue shared.

Pastor Don shared the importance of having an "anchor friend". He described one who will listen deeply and let you know if what you are experiencing is normal.

My friend, Eugena, had lost her husband several years before my Bill died. She was my "anchor friend". She listened to all the feelings that worried me and say, "Yup, I felt the same way." It was so encouraging to find out what I was experiencing was normal.

Pastor Don also shared how writing helped him process his grief. "I'd write on 3x5 cards. I called it parking my thoughts." He said it helps your brain let go of it.

Not everyone likes to write, but I can relate totally. I started my personal blog (www.marjistevens.com) in the fourth year of widowhood. It was hugely helpful for me - and for many others.

Sue said taking walks was a great processing platform . . . "I'd walk and walk and quote scriptures . . ."

These were really helpful pointers for all of us.

After their testimonies, Pastor Don opened it up for women to ask questions or share. It was precious a precious time. Two of the women who shared openly were visiting us for the first time.

Next month, in October, Bill Baxter will be speaking. He was Pastor Don't "anchor friend." I'm sure it will be an excellent ministry.

Looking forward to seeing you there,

Love Marji