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Stories for Single Women
Appreciating Little Things
by Kortnay R. Woods (Kortnay's bio)
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Wrinkled skin surrounded faded blue eyes. The woman across from Kara fidgeted in her seat. She had multiple medical bills, several late utility bills, and normal everyday living expenses to contend with. Out of a worn black leather bag, she removed bill after bill, and application after application for medical and utility assistance, programs that are supposed to help low-income individuals and families with medical and heating expenses.
“Mrs. Grey, I have good news for you. I found an organization willing to pay for some of your medical expenses,” Kara shared.
Pausing, the older woman's lips stretched up revealing white dentures, “Oh really?”
“Yes,” she responded, “It was a fluke really. I came across the information, did some more research, found a contact name and telephoned the organization. Your situation is just the type they like to help with.”
“Oh, thank you, thank you. You have done a good job.” Mrs. Grey rested her hands on the table.
“Well, it is not a lot. I was hoping they would give you more, but I trust it will help some. Living on a fixed income is difficult enough without having additional unpredicted medical expenses to contend with.”
“You did a good job,” she said again. “Every little bit helps.” Standing she walked toward and wrapped her arms around Kara. Surprised, Kara awkwardly returned the gesture.
“Every little bit helps,” the words stuck in Kara's mind. “How can she be so appreciative? She is ill, has extensive medical needs, is on a fixed income, and yet is able to be gracious and thankful,” Kara pondered.
“Please, let me introduce you to my son.”
Kara followed her out of the conference room and walked toward the waiting area. Opening the door that separate the waiting room from the exam rooms the elderly woman said, “Michael, come here please. I'd like you to meet this nice lady who is helping me.”
Michael stood. His disheveled salt and pepper hair partially concealing strained green eyes. Kara shook his proffered hand and glanced at his mother. Her eyes were soft and relaxed.
“Michael, this young lady was able to obtain money to help me pay some of my bills. Her name is Kara.”
“Oh mom, you did not need to do that. I could have helped you.”
“I know sweetie, but you can't always come to my aid. I have to help myself and God has used this young lady to do that.” Michael looked at me again with a sheepish yet grateful smile and helped his mother put her coat on.
“I'll let you know when the check arrives, Mrs. Grey.” Kara said as she nodded at Michael.
“Thank you, sweetie.” Michael, nodding back, escorted his mother out the office door.
Turning, Kara entered the exam area and walked toward her office. Sitting at her desk she mulled over Mrs. Grey's words as she let her pen roll between the thumb and forefinger of both of her hands. “Every little bit helps,” Kara whispered.
“Lord, how can she be so thankful, so appreciative? She has medical bills coming out of her ears. She can't afford to by food. She can't afford the medications she needs to keep alive. Yet she is pleasant, warm, and generous with her thanks and praise.”
“How could Mrs. Grey be so gentle in spirit,” Kara wondered. She began to reflect on her own attitude toward her circumstances.
“I am a pretty single woman driving a 10-year-old car. I make just enough to live, but am able to meet my expenses. I live with my parents who are loving and generous. I want to be married, rich, purchase a new car, and live in my own place. How ungrateful I am,” she thought.
“Lord, you have blessed me with family and friends who love me, a job that helps others, and a church that nourishes my spirit. More importantly you have blessed me with you.”
Picking up Mrs. Grey's chart, she began to write a clinical note. “Every little bit helps,” she whispered again.
“Every little bit is a blessing from You Lord,” Kara began to realize.
“But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner. For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. . .do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews 6:9,10,12 NKJV
Copyright 2002, Kortnay R. Woods. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.
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About Kortnay Woods: Kortnay Woods is a single woman who accepted Christ as a child. She is a free-lance non-profit grant consultant and the grant writer for a local hospital. She also works individually with children with mental disabilities, psychiatric disorders and learning disabilities on communication, reading comprehension, spelling and writing skills. Ms. Woods attends Calvary Chapel and is involved in several ministries. E-mail Kortnay |
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