The Twin Houses

Several years ago God sent a precious young friend into our lives. Nene worked for our optometrist. In the course of conversation we discovered one of the things we had in common was breast cancer. I remember a phone call from her that lasted into the wee hours of the morning. She was thankful she had received an encouraging oncology report. She spoke of how God was blessing her even during this most difficult time. God had brought a man into her life she believed was to be her life long partner. She knew he was a Godly man because he loved her with the love of God; even with her bald head and ravaged body.



Twin Houses: just like human twins they are mirror images of the other.



Nene lived in the cutest little cottage ever. She shared the story of twin sisters who had built these two cottages side beside. The twins wanted to be close but not under the same roof. They decided to build a connecting deck between the cottages. Each felt they could share this common ground.



We were both shocked and devastated when Nene passed away a few short weeks after our long conversation. It was difficult to understand why God allowed this precious Godly and pure young lady to leave this earth so soon. She shared concern for those she loved; particularly her father. Her mother had succumbed to cancer at the same age of 35.



Bad things happen to good people. Good things happen to bad people. God however is still in control. Nene, in her short life, left more light in this world than many of us do in a life time. We miss her, but know she is rejoicing with her Mom in heaven.



Like the twin sisters’ deck, the same things that connect us can also separate us. This can be especially true among family. Things that should bring us together in commonality; often divide. We all deal with hurt in our own way. Some of us cope in denial, and anger; others seek truth and healing. I am so thankful for God’s gifts of people like Nene. They encourage me to keep trusting God to turn hurts and disappointments into a deeper genuine love and understanding of others; particularly those closest to our hearts.

In the meanwhile, I am reminded of the words a friend penned to me from The Help; "You is good! You is smart! You is somebody!" I quote another friend, "God is crazy about His girls!" Nothing quite tops that now does it?

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.  Matthew 5:44-45