I’m sure you’ve heard it said that “attitude is everything”.

Despite the challenging journey, Irene’s ATTITUDE through this segment of her life has been nothing short of remarkable …. let me give you a brief illustration ….

I was up very early in the home office this morning enjoying a quality “quiet time” and moving through my daily “to do” list as well as that of responding to email …. As the sun began to rise Irene was finally sleeping VERY soundly so I deferred getting ready until the latest possible moment ….

Finally, I gingerly tip toed into the master bathroom, showered, then entered the master bedroom where she greeted me with her “signature” ear to ear smile …. I simply shook my head in wonder and amazement because Irene even wakes up with a great ATTITUDE!!!  If this was an occasional occurrence I would not even mention it.  However, this is Irene’s consistent behavior!!!!  She reminds me of this passage:

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life— ….

Selected verses from Philippians 2:5-14

Irene applied herself through the nausea today by completing several errands around town thoroughly enjoying the freedom of driving.  I arrived home late but in time to relish aroma-rich candles glowing throughout the house.  She prepared a wonderful dinner and we gazed at the picturesque sunset with wonder and awe …. it’s a lovely time of the year.  Irene has always made my homecoming such a joy ….

As witnessed by many, Irene’s life shines and reflects the glory of God’s indwelling Holy Spirit.  If “ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING” then Irene has it all.  She personifies that which we’re admonished to do …. which is to sustain the same humble attitude as that of our Lord …. and that she does with a winsome smile on her face!  She exhibits the
“shining like stars in the universe …. holding out the word of life ….”

Caminando con Fé
Dave