Unexpected Friends

So, never in a million years did I think I would join a Christian singles site. It was recommended to me by my best guy friend who met some very special people, the last of whom he has now been dating. I thought, sure, why not, I'll just go on there and see what's up. After the week and a half free trial, I had already corresponded with some really nice people, so I thought I'd give the membership a shot. Little did I know how much of an impact that decision would have on my life. I decided to take the plunge one May evening and entered the world of chat. This was no ordinary chat room. There were no offensive remarks, no one slamming anyone, and there was talk of God and His love for us. Whoa - this was different!!! It wasn't as difficult as I thought to join a conversation since there was so much going on at the time. I soon "connected" with a few who I now call my "core group". One very special night a few weeks ago I met with these people to pray. It was a God thing; that's all I can say. For some reason most of us were called there to the chat room that night. And for some reason most of them decided to come in and pray together. All I can say is - WOW!!! The love felt, although not in person, is indescribable. I truly felt everyone pulling together in Jesus' name. This may sound corny, but I believe that night bonded some of us like nothing else could have. We shared with each other some personal struggles and trials and encouraged and lifted each other up in prayer. Again, I have not personally met any of these people, but their friendship has become a mainstay in my life. We have become each other's shoulders to cry on, cheerleaders in good or bad times, and, most importantly, we are all members of God's family.

To Monique (confidante and best bud in chat), MaryBeth (supporter and voice of reason), Phil (truly God's man and master blogger), Rodney (prayer warrior and good friend), Doug (advice giver), Tania (whom I've been fortunate enough to meet and who has become like a little sister to me), Leslie (your happiness abounds), CJ (joyful and playful), Lilly (quiet humor and introspection), Joyce (a steady rock), Rhoni (a great mother and friend to all), Tim (for being there to talk to), Bruce (Mr. Prayer Man) - I thank God for the opportunity to have come to know you and I pray that one day our paths will cross in "the real world". Again to quote a song (because my life is one big song!!!), there is one out now called "Happy" by Ayiesha Woods. The bridge goes "I cannot count the ways You have made my life so blessed. All I know is that You came and made beauty of my mess." Thanks to all of you for being one of the many ways my life is so blessed, and I praise God that He has brought us out of our messes and into one another's lives. You all are truly the beauty in my mess!!! Much love to you.