Be still and listen.

#2: Sweet Elianna

When North and I marveled under the the whale shark tank (See more of that story here.), we slept next to a wild-hared little one named Elianna.  Her family was a few feet away and Elianna ran over several times to check on us.  You know, we might need to borrow her flashlight, did we see that fish, she had kittens on her jammies, KITTENS! She was adorable.  The next day we sat together at breakfast and got to know her mom and brother a bit.  Mom and I became friends online and we bumped into each other a few times throughout the day with big waves and smiles. 

A few days later, mom saw my first clover post and sent me a prayer request. This sweet, social firecracker had a lingering health concern and was facing some tests.  I prayed for healing. I prayed for peace.  

It was late afternoon and I pulled my van around to the back of our building to pick up a friend for lunch.  I parked and rolled down the windows to soak up the breeze and as I waited, I prayed.  My heart was broken to think of this child, any child, hurting, and as a mama I knew how heavy a burden this must have been for her folks.  

"Lord, thank you for the fearless spirit you gave Elianna. Thank you for the closeness and strength of her family. Give the doctors wisdom. Give Elianna joy.  Please bring your peace to her mom and dad.  Heal her in your name."

Her page in my journal was the first time I drew a tiny star. Here's why:  I knew I had to jump out of the car!  I knew her clover would be right there. I crossed the parking lot and a few feet into the grass, found this one.  

I couldn't wait to mail it off to her and I hoped that she would write to me in return.  Thus began our epistolary friendship.  Who doesn't love mail?  Her big brother would write; my boys would write.  We sent letters and cards and games every couple of months.   I continue to pray for my new friend.

I am overdue in sending my latest letter thanking her for the artwork and sending them a picture of the bulletin board I created at school.

This connection has greatly blessed me.  My family received the most thoughtful, generous gifts last Christmas.  I cherish my 'Nicole' necklace; thank you!  

And, thanks for snapping this picture of us so we could remember the moment forever.

Early in this journey I realized that I would be receiving far more than I was giving.  

Peace, Nicole Astra