I told her not to forget that she could even rollerblade and how silly I would get when there was a carnival around; I loved to brave the amusement rides. I also told her that the crafts she worked hard on for hours were beautiful and creative masterpieces. "We are truly blessed, aren't we?" I asked. Diane agreed.
"You know, Diane, one of the greatest ways I am blessed is that you are my niece." I told her I could confide in her about the way I feel about JRA, and that I knew she would understand. We cried together during that early morning talk, as we had often felt alone in dealing with all the emotions about having JRA. It was good to know we had each other, so the tears of relief and joy easily began to flow.
I knew a part of me was in Diane and a part of Diane was in me. It was the part that wasn't going to let the anger control our lives ever again. It had been a long night, but worth every second of lost sleep. So much had been gained - friendship! We now had a bond that only we could understand. I let my guard down that night and actually wept, which was as rare as finding a black pearl in an oyster. Every salty tear that warmed my cheek brought joy to my heart, as I wasn't crying for what I didn't have, but rather for what I had - Diane.
Why Diane? Because I truly believe God has a special plan for her, and maybe some day it will be that she will hold, talk to, cry along with, pray for, listen to, and love a child with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis - someone as special as she is to me.
Article comments
1 - Andy
Very touching story.
2 - Emily
You are such an amazing writer! Write more!