Jesse A. Schroeder

First, it is very humbling to receive gifts from people! We have received valuable gifts of time, food, service and simply money from people we would have never expected. Even more significantly, we continue to hear from people that they are praying for us and for Aleli. It is an extremely humbling experience for two people such as Kel and myself, two people who try to be strong, self-sufficient and capable at all times. 

We are accustomed to being the ones who give, and when you give, you are actually in power. But right now, we are weak and we are in need. That's hard to admit, but its easier when friends and family show support in a loving way. That feeling of being cared for, loved, and knowing that you are not alone is a very unique experience. 

Second, I am realizing the real value of a meal. We have received several meals, some cooked, some picked up from fast food, some brought fresh to our house specific to our order from our favorite restaurant. These meals are so important to us right now! There is something special about eating food that was prepared out of love and concern. Furthermore, it is saving us so much time and money. Some nights, we come home from the NICU around 9pm or later, and its a blessing to have dinner already simmering in the crockpot. And we haven't had to go to the store in 2 weeks! (Of course one week we were in the hospital, so....)

Because I now realize the importance of these meals, I told Kellye tonight that I always want to help others out in this way when they are in need. I used to think it wasn't a big deal, but now I realize how important providing a simply meal for someone can be. 

Finally, Kellye and I are continually in awe at the beauty and joy of being in God's big family and God's great kingdom. We are blessed with so many friends from years of shared experiences in God's kingdom, and there support means that much more because we know it comes from the heart of God. I believe that the value of the gift is more than the gift itself, simply because it is given. Or, in other words, a $20 meal brought to our house is worth many times more than $20, because it was brought to our house during our time of need. 

So, I am humbled. I am full of good food. And I'm loving life in God's big family.