Lately, with everything that has been going on in our family, I have often wondered what my role is in the middle of all of this. I have especially wondered how on earth I can be useful when I am four states away from all the most important people in my life! Of course, I pray unceasingly for my loved ones, but it doesn't often feel as important as it actually is.

Silly emotions, getting in the way of the Truth.

In the meantime, I go about life, doing what needs to be done. I spend a lot of time online, and if I'm honest, it's probably more than I should. (I'm working on that.)

Recently, I was commenting on a friend's story about her little son's fibular hemimelia, and his upcoming amputation. She responded with the sweetest, most sincere compliment I have ever received in my life. She told me that she looks forward to my comments, because I bring sunshine wherever I go. She even posted a picture of the Care Bear with a big yellow sun on his belly on my Wall.

I cried for joy as a light went on in my head!

My dad, since I was just a baby, has always called me his Sunshine. My friend did not know this. I had never really thought much about his nickname for me, but it took on a new significance that day.

I have also been told, time after time, that the words I speak to my friends, either in encouragement or prayer, are exactly what they needed to hear in that moment. Again - something I have never really thought much about, because words come so easily to me.

The very moment my friend told me I brought sunshine with me wherever I go, I discovered my God-given role in all this: Encourager.

Apparently, I just need to keep being my sunshine-y self, praying as much as I can, and I will always bring little moments of joy into the lives of those struggling around me.

I may not be able to solve their problems, and I might even say something stupid for which I have to apologize - but I can make their journey a little easier by bringing a smile to their face, even if it's just for a minute.

I cannot think of a compliment that would mean more to me than this, and I hope that it can always be true of me.

"Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." ~Nehemiah 8:10c (NIV)

How about you? What is the best compliment you have received lately?