no doubt if you are a blog reader, you may have heard about the story of christian & stephanie nielson. their story has circulated far and wide and the outreach to help their family continues to amaze me. i'm pretty sure they have crossed my mind every day since jeff came home and told me about the accident weeks ago. and each time i hurt a little more inside.
i first met christian back in the day when jeff and i were dating. he was one of jeff's best high school friends. they sang together in a group of six guys–twyce around. jeff pretty much won me over when i heard him sing. and christian, well i don't think i've ever heard a clear and low bass voice as amazing as his. they all got together again at their high school reunion to sing a few old tunes. they picked it up again like they'd never left off.
i've been keeping up with their recovery via stephanie's sister's blog hoping and praying that they can be a family again soon. but knowing that life for them has changed forever. and wondering what miracles the Lord is working through them. i know there are many. so many.
i've already experienced my own miracle just a few days ago reading her blog. i read a post from stephanie's brother after he visited them at the hospital. as i read his words, The doctor gave us some good news today – Stephanie's facial surgery went well. They worked on her hands and her face. They were able to preserve her ears and nose. i began to weep. i read it again. her ears and her nose. her ears and her nose. and i wept harder. and my heart changed. at that moment, i was reminded once again that the outward appearance is only a mortal house for our beautiful and eternal spirits. and that she is as beautiful as ever. i know this tragedy that has befell their family has a purpose far beyond our understanding. and it is our opportunity to understand His hand moving among us.
6 Comments
Jeff and Cherie-
I have followed this story as well. You can tell they are amazing people. They are both very talented. My heart goes out to them and their family at this time. Keep us posted if you hear or read anything else. They will be in our prayers.
i read her blog too, and felt the same way you did, but you put it so much more eloquently than i ever could. the line about her nose and ears pierced my heart and reminded me that beauty truly is within, and hers will always shine through.
Oh my goodness, my heart always aches for people in these circumstances, especially with children. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Love you.
Cherie…your way with words is amazing…you say just what we all feel!We’re praying!
xox
R
I hadn’t hear about the accident, but your words ring so true to me. Thank you for sharing them.
This is truly tragic! At the same time, I am amazed at the response and outreach of the whole blogging world over NieNie. My prayers are with them and especially their young children.