Sassafras and Gentle Hands

This post is dedicated to Wendi, Connie and Rebecca who prayed with me even though we were apart. It is also for Lou because she wanted to come to visit for Thanksgiving but plans did not work out for her to do that. They are my sisters and have been part of joy and sadness in my life and I am grateful God brought them to me. I thank Him that when I needed them, He brought gentle hands to my life.

Sassafras Tea

In the mountains of East TN and southwest VA there grows a tree. My grandmother called it the "headache tree" and the dried root was boiled to make a soothing tea. Children were not allowed to drink it but the smell of the root boiling was heavenly. My mother loved that drink and in the fall her brother would bring a little of the root to her. Most people said it was an old wives tale that it could thin your blood until it actually came through your skin but eventually science proved this to be true. It soothed headaches when used in moderation because it is a natural blood thinner. Somebody decided the taste would make a good soft drink. Maybe you have tried it... it is called Root Beer and now you know the name of the root that it was named for.

Gentle Hands

Over the years God has brought gentle hands to me. One sat with me at the dam and we drank in the beauty of the mountains. Another met me in the desert to give me a cactus to remind me that no matter how hard things get, there is always someone who loves us. I appreciate these moments but never so much as the gentle hands folded in prayer for me this week.

When things are hard for you, I hope you feel gentle hands of friends and know you are loved.

Psalms 100:5 For the Lord is good and His love endures forever. His faithfulness endures through all generations.

Love,
Nana