Prayers for a Friend Who Is Always Paying It Forward . . .

There are people in this world who just naturally think of others before they think of themselves.  I’m sure you know a few – they are the ones who hear of hardship and are immediately there with a kind word or a meal or a hug.  And they are the ones who don’t stop at one kindness – they follow up even years down the road to make sure all is going well.

Nami Nakamura is one of those people.  You probably know her from DeNami Designs, as a smiling face and bundle of energy on the show circuit.  I know her as the angel who sent the first card to my mom when she started chemo five years ago – the angel who still checks on her every time we speak – the angel who did/does all of this even though she has never met my mom.  Nami encouraged me to share Mom’s story with you, and when my very private mother agreed, we were showered with notes and prayers and support from so many more people who have never met my mom.  And we will always be grateful.

It has already been a stressful year for Nami and her husband, Gary – Gary had a major stroke at the end of February, but thankfully he has made a full recovery.

Now, it is Nami’s turn.  She gave me permission to share this message that she posted on her Facebook page a couple of days ago – it is a message of fear, hope, faith, and love.

“Health diagnosis:
I had scar tissue removed recently and they did a biopsy as procedure. What I didn't expect to hear was that they found a form of skin cancer developing. They told me to come in again to remove a wider area, which will happen beginning of January.

I texted my dad and he had these sent to me the next day. You see, my dad is not demonstrative or emotional at all. He is logical and has a PhD in science. This touching gift meant so much to me because of it. My dad was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, so I worry more about him.

My friend asked me how I'm doing.

My response was, "I have too much living to do to worry about dying."  You see, as a born again Christian, I have been thinking about death ever since I learned about eternal life, which was over 30 years ago. I have thought about my purpose for living when I discovered God's purpose for me.

Me regarding death? "Ain't got time for that!"

For those of you who haven't considered where death will lead, seek Jesus and God's purpose for you. Your life will be fuller than you dreamed, will be deeper than you imagined, harder than you expected, but will be more joyous than you can dare to experience. Saying this, you would imagine I never experienced trouble in life, but I can assure you that you will likely find the ones that are most joyful have experienced more pain, darkness and sorrow than most, but have overcome because of Jesus.

I will have sorrow and tears through this journey, but today I celebrate life and God's love through the love of my dad.”

I encourage you to shower this beautiful friend with the same love and support that she gives with so much joy in her heart every day.  You can send messages to her at denamidesign@gmail.com – thanks.