Sunday, March 18, 2007, 7:26 p.m., D.S.T. (writing in the church lobby, waiting for Bill to get the van, so I can load up the kids)~

Dear Naomi~

I'm glad Rebekkah is on the mend; however, I am sorry to learn that she is now a quadriplegic. She has been through so much; how much can one lone girl stand? It doesn't make any sense whatsoever...

I am also sorry to hear that her sister, Maddie, is not faring as well. It certainly doesn't sound good; but as Bill and I alluded to you earlier, it's best not to give up hope. She may wake up and surprise you--then again, maybe not. It's entirely up to God; it's His will, not ours. You have to learn to lean on Him during this situation, in ALL situations. Either way, whether she awakens or not, survives or not, if you lean on Him, it will make you stronger.

You have read or heard of some of the situations facing my own kids, how they got sick or injured, that there wasn't much hope for them; thank GOD He brought them through! They are living, breathing testimonies to the miracles of prayer and faith. If it were not for their (or our) faith, they wouldn't been here or done as well as they have. I actually believe that with all of my heart.

I am still trying to work up the courage to tell Johnny about Rebekkah. He'll be crushed, but we'll be there to help him get through it. I just hope this doesn't prove to be detrimental to his health. Like Rebekkah, Johnny has been through so much.

Ronee' isn't as teary, she's faring a little better. She still is sad, though; we all are. She will write to Rebekkah sometime today after we get home or tomorrow after school. I feel for her. She really loves your daughter; again, we all do. Rebekkah is an inspiration, and her courage to overcome obstacles is astounding.

Naomi, this isn't long, but Bill wants to get on the computer now. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call or e-mail us. We will get back to you!

Give Micah, Becky, Maddie, Emily, and Daniella (as well as little Davie) our best, and give them hugs from us.

God be with you and please know we are praying extra hard for Becky and Maddie (and you)! You need it most of all!

~With much love, your Tennessee friend, Louie May. :(

Isaiah 40:28-31: "Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard? That the Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary. There is no searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might. He increaseth strength, even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young man shall utterly fail. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint."

Trust in these verses for strength when needed. He will be there with you. He will empower you with strength.

~Louie.