This is one of those times where I am at a loss for words and don't even know where to begin. I guess I'll start with a rundown of the events that occurred today to lead me to feel inspired to post this blog.
I finally felt physically up for a hike (I would say mentally as well, but the weather conditions had more of a strain on my desire than my mental state - and God knows I have been desperately longing to get out and about lately). It was a beautiful day: high of 48 degrees and sun-filled everywhere the eye can see, which in Utah is perfect weather to be outdoors enjoying the sunshine that feels more like in the 60's than 40's. My bestie/coworker/roomie and I decided to partake in a trail that was new to me and nearby our residence. We made it to the highlight of the trail, the Suspension Bridge, and did what normal social media enthusiasts do - started a photo shoot. The view was incredible, surrounded by a gelid and snow-covered landscape with the overlook of a waterfall that had partially frozen over into stalactite icicles - perfect for a photographic opportunity. Once we had enough "gram-worthy" photos, we made our way across the bridge when I noticed a bench with a ziploc bag on it, held in place by a large stone. There was a note inside the bag, with the words "Please read me" handwritten on it, along with a green bow. Intrigued, we opened the bag to find a page-length letter. I instantly thought to myself, "This is going to be a sob story asking for money from someone that is unable to meet medical expenses or living costs". Boy, was I wrong.
I wouldn't say what the letter detailed was a "sob story", though it did bring a copious amount of tears to my eyes. This letter was more of a story of inspiration that enkindled the desire to focus on what's important in life. The author, Brandon, wrote about how a few years back he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and has recently been put on Hospice as a result. He decided, per the request of his social worker, to write a letter about what he has deemed important in life: cherishing what you love, hugging those you love as often as possible, tell those you love that you love them, be impeccable with your word, be reliable, forgive others, do away with hate, make right choices, and always chase after your dreams. What a profound profession of how to live!
Something else Brandon mentioned in his note was that the activities he loved to partake in became impossible for him once MS took over. He was very active and into the outdoors, much like myself. Reading this instantly took hold of my heart and reminded me of how I need to count my blessings daily. Last year was a huge struggle for me as I was told I had two severely herniated discs and stenosis of the spine, which needed to be treated immediately with back surgery. This dissipated my dreams of hiking and put me in a mental state of believing how unfair life can be. I selfishly thought, "I just moved to Utah FOR hiking. And now I'm not able to do the thing I love?" But little did I know, God had other plans in store. While I was impatiently waiting for approval from workers compensation to get the surgery I was told by four out of four doctors I needed immediately, God was working a miracle in me. Months later (and after multiple phone calls and emails), workers comp finally approved the surgery and allowed me to be treated by a doctor of my choosing, so long as it was in Florida. After flying back and forth countless times (also in the middle of a pandemic, might I add), I met with a neurosurgeon that changed my life by telling me he didn't think I needed the surgery after all. He ordered another MRI to see where I was at three months after my initial one. We met a few weeks later to go over the results and he was astounded. He said he'd never seen healing of such significance in such a short amount of time. I told him that I am a Christian and had many people praying for my healing, to which he responded that he believes in the power of prayer too and this was proof of that.
This letter Brandon shared not only served as a reminder to be thankful for the healing power of Jesus, but also to remember that God's timing is perfect. Had I not been on that trail at that exact moment, I never would've read Brandon's story. And now I am honored to be a part of the profound impact he's making and the incredible legacy he's leaving.
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