Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Today, Joe had the opportunity to speak with Cammy Lee and Maria from the Cammy Lee Leukemia Foundation (CLLF). Cammy has an inspiring story of her own, and it was so nice for Joe to be able to talk to someone who has "been there, done that." Maria is really on the ball and seems the perfect person to have on our team! They are both SO sweet and seem genuinely excited to help us! They have all kinds of plans for drives, promotions, and education. It is all very exciting. Plus...Joe and I have been overwhelmed with how many of you are wanting to help help help us with anything and everything. We are SO grateful for this - and as I've been telling people, "don't you worry. The day will come when I'll be coming to you for help!" That day is right around the corner, so all those willing and able, we might be contacting you and asking you to help us and help the CLLF help us as well! We're gonna beat this thing :) *whew* Praise God that we have so many people who are fighting with us.

Special thanks to Vince for hooking us up with the CLLF, and for just being such a great brother. Vince has bent over backwards to help us as much as possible - making phone calls, doing research, being our point man. The crazy guy has been doing this even though he had to prepare for the boards...and now is dealing with moving to California...on Friday. :( We're going to miss Vince like crazy! He's one of those guys that everyone loves. The kind of guy who probably finds himself on the receiving end of lots of deep confessions and venting and other heavy stuff. Vince is the guy who always pays too much when eating out with a group of friends to compensate for the people who pay too little. If it is at all possible - and often even when it's not possible - Vince will be around to help in any way he can. A lot of people in the 'burgh are currently going through denial at the thought of Vince moving! We're going to miss you Vince! But you know you're ALWAYS welcome back in Pittsburgh. This is your real home! Just promise that you take good care of yourself way out there in California. :) (by they way. if you're a single female, you are out of luck. a beautiful lady has already captured Vince's heart!)

Now I leave all of you with a Bible reading from our wedding day. Joe and I have been reading it and reciting it daily. Each day, it seems God speaks to us through a different part of the passage. And of course, every time, we hear exactly what we need to hear...

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

~Philippians 4:4-9

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Guys,

Yes, I have to agree, Vince is a great guy and many of us are in denial about his leaving.

I want to thank you for helping me with my sermon for this Sunday - the Message is entitled "It Takes Courage." The passage is from Matthew 14:22-33 where the apostles see a ghost and are terrified. Only Peter has the courage to talk to this "fearful creature" (Jesus) and then take the step of faith to get out of the boat and attempt the impossible; walk on the water.

You two are a great inspiration of courage and celebration during trying times. I am using the passage from Philippians to end the message.

Here is my outline:
1. It Takes Courage to Get out of the Boat (confront life's challenges, obey God's voice)
2. It takes Courage to Talk to a Ghost (face our fears, face the facts)
3. It takes Courage to Celebrate Life (live in gratitude, live in wonder, live in worship)

Anonymous said...

Dear Joe and Karen,
Philippians 4:4-9 has been one of my favorite verses too. Since I am a born worrier, this verse has constantly reassured me that God is in control of my life. Glad that the verse has spoken so mcuh to you guys.

I have been reading this blog in between feedings and diaper changing. It warms my heart to see you both going thru' this difficult time together. It speaks volume of the love that you both have for each other. You guys are in our prayers and thoughts each day.

Btw, thanks so much to Karen for the crochet blanket you made for Ethan! It's beautiful and one of the most meaningful gifts he has received. Now I can't wait for Fall to come - I can finally wrap his tiny body in it!

Hope to see you guys in church soon so that I can introduce Baby Ethan to Uncle Joe and Auntie Karen-the lovely couple!!

God Bless,
Ping Tan