Our small village has a unique gift shop, in which, my girls and I happened inside one day.  I saw the sweetest sunflower bracelet, but my goal that day was to shop for a birthday gift for my daughter’s friend.  Another day, perhaps, I’ll purchase this beautiful bracelet.  Sitting with my Woman of Worth ladies, a sweet girl gave me a precious gift and note of encouragement.  She found the bracelet as a media message from another WOW girl.  From this, her family went to the store to purchase the bracelet, and ,of course, it was “the last one left”, shared my sweet friend.  She had no idea that months prior I had wanted the bracelet.  God gives us the desire of our heart.  He cares in the most intimate way. He is a personal God.

The tag with the sunflower bracelet symbolizes optimism, compassion, and resilience.

God give me Your Joy and help me be the Proverbs 31 woman who “smiles/laughs at her future!”

God give me Your compassion to love when loving is hard.

God, when my strength and hope are fading, give me Your strength to run the race.

This special flower is unexpectedly strong and optimistic, as it is constantly rising up from the ground, turning its face toward the sun.  A bright symbol of faith, the sunflower exudes happiness, from its vibrant petals to its resilient roots.  An encouragement to seek joy on the darkest days, the Sunflower Charm celebrates the power that grows from staying ever positive, facing toward the light.

The purchase of this bracelet supports the Alzheimer’s Association, to advance research and enhance care and support for those living with Alzheimer’s.

As I wear the bracelet from treasured friends, I will remind myself that I only can receive optimism, compassion, and resilience from God alone.  He alone-the Son–fills me to this capacity.  I’ve tried to grow sunflowers in my current home without success because the shading of all the oak trees blocks the sun.  No daily sun (Son) keeps the sunflower from maturing and growing.  Enough said!

I also remember the many people in my life suffering from Alzheimer’s and those who are in heaven after battling this illness.

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

Oh Jesus–may we delight in You.  Give us Your joy.  Help us to see You in all things provided to us and for us.  Thank you for using those we love most to remind us of Your redeeming love.  I love you….