July 20
“Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other’s gold.” We used to sing that in the Girl Scouts.
The last week, so that I wasn’t home on Norm’s birthday, I traveled to PA to Montrose Christian Writer’s Conference. I used to attend when we lived in NY. I haven’t been for the last 9 years because they changed the dates to correspond with Norm’s birthday…and I wanted to go on trips to celebrate with him.
It had been a long time, and some of those I remember were not there due to illness. A few keep tabs on Facebook and spoke of Norm and how they enjoyed his photos. I made some new friends and enjoyed hearing of their writing projects. It was and continues to be a place where a writer can receive encouragement, teaching and challenges.
Someone wrote me a beautiful note of encouragement, signed with initials that I did not recognize. Even though I don’t know who it was from, it is a note I will keep to read again when I need encouragement.
After the conference, I headed on up to Clifton Park to see friends from the church we attended. They had faithfully prayed for Norm and encouraged us along the way. I met with a few one on one, but was able to greet and worship with a number of them.
Where’s the joy?
I am thankful for friends, old and new. They bless my life with camaraderie and encouragement. I feel their support each day.
I pray that I will be an encouragement to those within my sphere of influence.
I rejoice that God provides what is needed for us to not only survive, but to thrive as we walk with one another on this earth.
Where’s the joy? No surprise, friends, old and new.
For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God.
Romans 15:4-7
TRICIA LATHROP 