The effects of the quarantine order placed in Oregon on March 23, 2020 have been far-reaching. The affect it will have on the state, the country, are yet to be determined. Quite possibly the measures to contain the virus might create a bigger impact on people than the virus itself. I say this not to downplay the seriousness of the situation. I know a lot of people have died from the Coronavirus. My heart goes out to them.

But what about those families that are struggling to put food on the table? Or those families that aren’t sure how they’re going to pay their bills, mortgage, rent, etc? More and more people are turning to alcohol, drugs, or some other form of escape. Domestic violence has increased because people don’t have an outlet. How many kids are affected by this as they are abused or neglected by their parents? Are they remembered? We need to remember them and pray for them.

Since Michele’s stroke, we belong to another community…those that are disabled (or alternatively abled). You like that twist? It’s all about your mindset.

Michele has been and is in tremendous pain. Prior to the lockdown, she was getting regular acupuncture and physical therapy. All that was canceled. The acupuncture was giving her relief that she hasn’t had in a long time. Now it hurts for her to sit in the wheelchair.

Despite all of this, Michele, I believe, is discovering a new purpose God is helping her step in to.

Before 2 weeks ago, almost 3 years went by since Michele was in the “mood” to craft. She told me that weekend that she has a vision, which totally excited me. She had me dig out all of her supplies. She found a set of cards to make and dove in. She posted the cards online to sell and that day, she sold over $200 worth of cards!

Additionally, two days ago, she said she had a dream to open a Bed & Breakfast. This inspires me to push harder towards my dream of being able to retire from my job and use my home-based businesses to replace my income. My dream is also to have a stage to share our story. Not for my benefit, or to have people look at me. But to encourage others, to have an impact on them. I do not want any of our suffering to be wasted.

In closing, I want to reiterate that, I am not taking lightly the pain people who have undergone during this time. However, with any situation, God promises it for good to those who love Him and called according to His purposes. Yes, God even meant good to come out of my wife’s stroke and all that suffering.