Somewhere along the way I learned that helping others gives me joy.
At no time is this more important than when I am hurting.
I learned that, even in the midst of grief and sadness, when I help someone by word or deed, then my suffering is eased if only for a few moments.
I am trying to find a sliver of joy each hour as we wait.***
I find it in bits and pieces.
Sometimes I have to work hard to find it.
I can not give in to despair.
I don’t have that luxury.
I am needed.
The Backstory
***My 34-year old daughter-in-law is fighting for her life from Stage 4 cancer.
John Greenleaf Whittier, 1807-1892
John Greenleaf Whittier was an American poet, journalist, activist and abolitionist who, in the latter part of his life, was a household name in both England and the United States.
Quotes by John Greenleaf Whittier
“Give fools their gold, and knaves their power; let fortune’s bubbles rise and fall; who sows a field, or trains a flower, or plants a tree, is more than all.”
“Peace hath higher tests of manhood, than battle ever knew.”
“When faith is lost, when honor dies, the man is dead.”
Lori Greer in Portland 
Wow ❤ hugs, Jeanne
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I love the first line of that quote!! Keeping you all in prayer and you are inspiring all of us who follow your posts with your strength! Tina
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Thanks Lori for the great quotes and introduction to Mr Whittier. He seems to be a man of deep wisdom.
You have helped me today by posting this 🙂
Prayers for the best possible outcome for all.
love.
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This is very wise — painful, but courageous & wise. It helps, it really does.
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“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” The Beatles, my favorite line from their lyrics.
As painful as it sometimes is, it holds true.
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Thank you. So true…loving others opens our heart to such joy and often pain.
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Don’t forget to take good care of yourself, too. You can’t afford to lose yourself helping others, it’s important to make sure you yourself are doing well, too.
I continue sending you love and positive energy. It’s horrible seeing a loved one battle cancer, it’s difficult being on the sidelines. But being there can make all the difference to the person fighting the fight. Take care, Lori.
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thank you. It is very hard. I appreciate your kind words. Hugs, Lori
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Lori what an uplifting and encouraging post to come home too. I have been away and even with the joy of a new grandchild sometimes the complexities of where our younger generation find themselves can be challenging…..even heartbreaking…. your post has reinforced indeed that in the midst of it ALL… there is joy in the helping. Do take care of yourself Lori. Your life purposes in the years ahead are still unfolding. How you guard you own well-being will influence everyone around
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