Joe and Jessa, back in 1994 I was home in Wisconsin and waiting to have back surgery. Christmas was approaching and everyone was busy getting ready for the season. Me, well I was being heavily medicated, and not doing so well! The negative side effects were all being manifested and I was still in pain. It was during this time that Auntie Kandace gave me the best medicine ever!

One night after dinner we bundled up to go walk around the neighborhood. If I used the word stroll, that implies that we were going faster than we were actually moving. Kandace was being very gracious! As we walked she let me share my feelings and listened giving understanding responses. She was being a great little sister, wise beyond her years. Once she knew that I was done sharing she took over the conversation.

She started critiquing the outside Christmas decorations of each yard as we sauntered by. No light was overlooked, no garland, snow globe, Rudolph, Santa, tree, window decoration was without comment. She used her dry sense of humor and wit to commentate the "fine" details of each residence! I ended up laughing so hard I almost wet myself.

I have never forgotten our winter's night walk! That night I experienced that a joyful heart is the ultimate medicine! Circumstances are going to be what they will be BUT being able to laugh, maintain a sense of humor and an element of fun in life is vital! God used Kandace to teach me this valuable lesson. Having back surgery wouldn't be the hardest thing I would ever experience. God also gave me you and your daddy to make sure that the giggles, chuckles, and laughing medicine would always be available! You are my best medicine!

Proverbs 17:22

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.

John 10:10

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

Video Kandace made for Ron and Carol's 50th Anniversary

Joy by Rend Collective