Number Our Days

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

As I swept the kitchen floor that January day, I reflected on the week’s events. We buried Zia Giovanna (my husband’s aunt) on Monday, at age eighty-eight. As the oldest of four daughters, Zia Giovanna helped manage the family household. She became an amazing cook and, over time, had a family. Zia Giovanna was vibrant, loved to sing, and enjoyed entertaining others. She had a great laugh. In the everyday tasks of ordinary life, she cherished her family.[i]

In my sadness, I wondered how often Zia Giovanna had swept the floor, washed the dishes, prepared the meals, or made the beds. When I was young, I would have thought eighty-eight was ancient! I believed anyone over sixty was old! Now that I have reached that age, my perspective has changed, and sixty is not old. Days turn into weeks, and weeks into months, and the Lord gently reminds me to number my days, realizing I am only here for a relatively short time.

Because of this, I am eager to share my stories of God’s faithfulness, unfailing love, and favour throughout my life. I pray that they will inspire you and remind you that He can do for you what He has done for me.

We gain a heart of wisdom by appreciating and living each day to the fullest. For now, I count the days and happily embrace the simple task of sweeping the floor. I am thankful for the dirty dishes and the prepared meals, because it means I have food. With every straightening of the bed sheets, I whisper a prayer of gratitude for God’s faithfulness to me in my every day, ordinary life.

Oh, how sweet the light of day,
And how wonderful to live in the sunshine!
Even if you live a long time,
Don’t take a single day for granted.
Take delight in each light-filled hour.
Ecclesiastes 11:7-8 (The Message) 

Reflection

“Life is short, and we never have enough time for the hearts of those who travel the way with us. O, be swift to love! Make haste to be kind.”[ii] May we have the wisdom to number our days in the ordinary of life. How has God shown Himself faithful and loving in your day?

[i] Sadly, my husband lost his Zia Maria in November of the same year, another reminder to number our days.

[ii] Henri-Frédéric Amiel quote.

In all your ways submit to him, and he shall make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6

I got the call at 12:54 p.m.

“Hi, it’s me. I got it.”

I immediately understood the message and felt complete relief. The “me” was my husband, and the “it” was a last-minute travel VISA issued by Toronto’s Consulate General of India.[i] I could scarcely believe we were flying out that same day to India, on assignment for a non-governmental organization (NGO).

Less than a year earlier, on a very ordinary day, my colleague, knowing I was reeling from the Call to Action fallout, approached me with details of a new company program. The Secondment Program was a new philanthropic initiative offering employees the chance to work for a non-profit organization for a set period while keeping their employee status, salary, and benefits. Essentially, the company would pay you to work for an NGO.

One of the many requirements of the Secondment Program was to “Partner with a non-profit organization to help a less developed country in the field of healthcare.” I did not study science or medicine. I worked in Information Technology and wondered how I could meet this criterion. With little possibility of being selected, I applied and prayed for favour. Imagine my great delight when my application received the green light. A new door opened, and a new adventure began.

I partnered with NGO World Vision’s global nutrition team. The team needed to explore online training options for their field workers. Did the onsite offices have the technology bandwidth, computer equipment, and network connections to support computer-based learning?

I spent seven months working with World Vision to find answers to these questions. I visited multiple World Vision field offices in India and Africa during my research. I experienced the kindness of strangers through their warm hospitality and generosity. My husband travelled with me, and we experienced God’s favour, abundant blessings, and protection.

I was sitting in misery when the Secondment Program redirected my life in an unexpected, life-changing way. Alexander Graham Bell said, “When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” [ii]

Reflection

Are you dwelling on any closed doors? You might be overlooking new challenges and opportunities; doors that God is opening just for you. Submit to God, and He will make your path straight.

[i] Canadians require a travel VISA to visit India.

[ii] Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922) was a Scottish-born Canadian-American inventor, scientist, and engineer credited with patenting the first practical telephone.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine … to him be glory. Ephesians 3:20-21

Doug Veenstra warned me, “Prepare to fall in love with Africa.”

Since 2004, my workplace has held an annual Children’s Walk to raise funds for children in Africa. To motivate participants to collect more donations, the top fundraiser at each affiliate was given a chance to visit Africa. I vividly recall telling colleagues how much I would love to visit Malawi, Africa.

In 2005, I was the top fundraiser for Canada[i], and my name was randomly picked to visit Lilongwe, capital of Malawi. Nine colleagues accompanied me and saw how our funds supported children in their education, healthcare, food programs, and access to clean water. We visited orphanages, and from a distance, we could hear the orphan children singing as we approached for our visits. I fell in love with Africa’s children.

From Malawi, I flew to Arusha, Tanzania. My husband met me there, and we enjoyed a lovely visit with our missionary friends Doug and Julia Veenstra and their five children.[ii] They organized a three-day safari in the Serengeti National Park[iii]. We were in awe daily as we saw hippopotamuses, lions, monkeys, elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, flamingos, and other magnificent animals. I fell in love with Africa’s wildlife.

We were blessed to visit Africa again in 2009 as part of my Secondment Program. During our month there, we visited Nairobi, Kenya; Arusha, Tanzania; and Accra, Ghana. Meeting and working with World Vision employees filled me with admiration for their efforts in providing help and hope to many communities. I fell in love with Africans working to make the world better.

Kenya: We stayed at the Panari Hotel in Nairobi. The average temperature throughout the year is 22°C, and I never expected to see a solar ice rink in this hotel.[iv] I appreciated having this reminder of home.

Arusha: Driving from the airport to the hotel, we gazed upon Mount Kilimanjaro.[v] In a place where time seems to stand still, I was stunned to see a traditional Maasai warrior,[vi] pull out a cell phone. Technology allowed him and us to stay connected.

Accra: One Sunday morning, we attended a church service, where I was invited to speak about the Secondment Program and how God opened the door for us to visit Ghana. I was grateful to experience God’s presence in a Ghanaian church.[vii]

Never in my wildest dreams did I envision visiting Africa twice and experiencing these adventures. Doug was right; I did fall in love with Africa.

Reflection

God can do immeasurably above what we ask or imagine. What are you asking Him for?

[i] During the Malawi trip, I learned that my nine colleagues raised significantly more money than I did for the Children’s Walk. It warmed my heart that God had opened this door for me, for His glory, and not for anything I had done.

[ii] Doug and Julia Veenstra served as African missionaries from 2002 to 2007. Julia is an accomplished artist – check out her website: www.juliaveenstra.com

[iii] www.serengeti.com

[iv] The solar ice rink accommodates 200 skaters, and you can sign up for skating lessons. www.panarihotels.com/hotel-nairobi/ice-rink

[v] Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa attracts thousands of climbers every year.

[vi] The traditional Maasai community is renowned for its distinctive customs and culture, including vibrant clothing, intricate hairstyles, elaborate jewelry, and face painting. www.maasaiwilderness.org/maasai

[vii] A big thank you to Pastor Samuel Addai-Kusi and his lovely wife, Lydia Dora, for their hospitality and kindness during our visit.

Maasai community renowned for its distinctive customs and culture, including vibrant clothing, intricate hairstyles, elaborate jewelry, and face painting. www.maasaiwilderness.org/maasai

[vii] A big thank you to Pastor Samuel Addai-Kusi and his lovely wife, Lydia Dora, for their hospitality and kindness during our visit.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

For 14 days every two years, my eyes stay glued to the television. How many of you, like me, are captivated by the Olympics? Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter. Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.[i]

Aren’t they exciting? Whether it is speed skating and cross-country skiing in winter or swimming and gymnastics in summer, all of it is so thrilling to watch. I hold my breath as the racers line up and the announcer calls, “Ready?” The starting gun goes off. Go!

Our lives can be compared to a long-distance race. Children are at the start of the race while others are farther ahead, attending school, and later beginning a career. In the middle of the race are those raising a family and driving kids to soccer or swimming. Others are further along, looking forward to retirement and an empty nest. After visiting my mom in the long-term care home, I saw men and women nearing the end of their race.

How can we prepare for and run the race so we finish strong? Consider these three areas: health, mind, and emotions.

What are we eating? Are we exercising regularly? Are we getting proper sleep? Do we smoke or drink alcohol? The choices we make about our health today affect us later in life. “If you persevere long enough, if you do the right things long enough, the right things will happen.” Manon Rhéaume [ii] Treat your body well.

We must continue learning and developing our minds at every stage of the race. Reading is an excellent activity to sharpen our minds. Stimulating conversations and new activities helps keep our minds engaged. Studies have shown a link between puzzles and improved cognitive abilities. “As strong as my legs are, it is my mind that has made me a champion.” Michael Johnson[iii] Be curious and learn something new.

Three powerful words for healthy emotions: Forgive Everyone Quickly. Although it is rarely easy, forgiveness is a choice made by the heart. Forgiveness frees the forgiver to live with joy and peace. “… I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.” Marion Jones[iv] Be quick to forgive.

Reflection

“You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again.”[v] The choices we make today influence tomorrow’s race. Some Olympic athletes train for years, yet their race lasts only ten seconds! If we are fortunate, we have many years ahead of us. “Don’t think about the start of the race, think about the ending.” Usain Bolt[vi] Ready? Go!

[i] In 2021, the International Olympic Committee approved adding of the word “together” to the motto.

[ii] Manon Rhéaume is a Canadian former ice hockey goaltender who won an Olympic silver medal in 1998.

[iii] Michael Johnson is an American sprinter who won Olympic medals four times during the 1996 and 2000 Games.

[iv] Marion Jones is an Olympic athlete who won five track-and-field medals in 2000 but returned them in 2007 when she admitted to using banned substances.

[v] Bonnie Prudden quote.

[vi] Usain Bolt is a retired Jamaican sprinter who won eight Olympic gold medals across the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Games.

Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Luke 12:27

Beauty: Every flower is unique and lovely, with its vibrant colour, distinctive petals, and wonderful fragrance. Each one grows and blooms in its own time. My dwarf lilac bush blooms in late May and lasts into June. I enjoy the beauty and simplicity of my Shasta daisies. My sedum plants start the season green, and as the weeks pass, they turn into a rich, deep pink. Each flower has its beauty, and so do we. We bloom at different times. We grow with diverse personalities, temperaments, and fragrances. Beautiful.

Sun and Rain: My flowers need sun and rain to grow and thrive. Too much or too little of either can harm them. Cool days or late spring frosts can stunt their growth. We turn the sprinkler on hot summer days to keep the flowers cool. Without water, they dry out and wilt. In my life, I need the balance that each brings. If I want to be healthy, fragrant, and beautiful, I need sunny and rainy days. I have learned to embrace life’s goodness and hardships because they have shaped who I am.

Weeds: Weeds are annoying. They are persistent and grow in any soil and condition. Removing the weeds from my garden is crucial because they invade space and steal nutrients from the flowers. Some have deep roots and are prickly; they are so stubborn that I need gloves, a shovel, and a burst of strength to remove them. Likewise, in my life, I must pull out the weeds. The weeds of hatred, unforgiveness, and pettiness must not overrun the blossoms of love, tender mercies, and compassion.

No Worries: As the sun rises, my flowers do not worry about what they will eat or what they will drink.[i] They do not labour or fret over viruses, finances, or traffic. Their purpose is to showcase the glory of God. God cares for my beautiful garden, and I am confident I am of greater value to Him than the flowers, and so are you. Like my flowers and plants, I need not worry or fret. I can look to Him and enjoy His provision and care.

Reflection

How is your flower garden growing? You are beautiful and unique. Embrace the warmth of His sunshine and His refreshing rain. Evict those nasty weeds. Do not worry about what you will eat, drink, or wear because “Your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”[ii] Rest assured that God is for you.

[i] “And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink, do not worry about it.” Luke 12:29

[ii] “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ … your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”
Matthew 6:31-32

Her children arise and call her blessed … Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Proverbs 31:28-29

Mother’s Day is five days away, and my heart aches. I miss my mom[i].

My mom was a wonderful mother. Lest you think she had a pair of wings or wore a halo, know that she had her quirks and faults – as we all do. Yet, I rise and call her blessed.

Mom often spoke of her father, Onésiphore[ii]. He was a man of faith. In her childhood home, they had a prayer bench, and as a child, he would invite my mom to kneel beside him and pray. On Sunday afternoons, her mother, Ludovica, quizzed them on catechism and explained the meaning of some questions.[iii]

Prayer became part of her daily routine, and she remained steadfast in her faith. As children growing up, my mom insisted we attend church every Sunday – no excuses! Later in life, she was within walking distance of a church and attended mass daily. After my dad passed away, she moved in with my sister and we took turns driving her to church each week. I am eternally grateful for a God-fearing mother. She did a noble thing by encouraging us to cultivate faith in God, just as her father and mother had done with her.

As an adult, I treasured our one-on-one times because I did not have to share her with my many siblings, as I did when we were children. After any stressful or discouraging day, Mom had a way of cheering me up. Her face would light up whenever I walked into the room. “How are you, Mom?” I would ask. She always replied, “Ça va mieux maintenant que tu es là.” (It is better now that you are here.) She often told us, “You are all my favourites.” Yet, she had a special way of loving us, making me feel I truly was her favourite. And she deeply longed for us siblings to get along. She repeatedly urged us siblings to: “Aimez-vous les uns les autres.”[iv] (Love one another.) She was delightful!

I miss my mom. Yet, I often see her in my sister’s expression, my nephew’s generosity, our shared laughter when we gather, and at times, in the mirror! I will miss her on Mother’s Day,[v] and always. She has surpassed them all, and I arise and call her blessed.

Reflection

Jesus commanded us to love one another as He has loved us.[vi] If someone has blessed you incredibly, tell them how much you appreciate them today. Through your love, encourage those around you to cultivate their walk of faith so they will arise and call you blessed.

[i] My mother passed away in 2012. The grief lessened over time, but I will miss her always.

[ii] My mom spoke affectionately about her father, Onésiphore. How I wish I had known him.

[iii] Excerpt from Chiasson Moments, a story written by my Uncle Narcisse.

[iv] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

[v] I was doubly blessed to celebrate my wonderful mother-in-law, Rosa. Oh, how I miss her also.

[vi] John 13:34

Listen to your father, who gave you life. Proverbs 23:22

My mother, Délia, loved her father, Onésiphore, and I enjoyed hearing her talk about him. Onésiphore had a university degree, which was uncommon in the early 1900s. Mom recalled that she adamantly refused to let her dad teach her English as a child. Why would she ever need to learn English when everyone around her spoke only French?

Fast-forward many years. My mom and dad decided to move from New Brunswick to Ontario, thereby living in an English-speaking environment. Oh, how she wished she had listened to her father’s advice to learn English, which was now forced upon her in this new community.[i] By helping us with our spelling and homework, and by interacting with others, my mom learned English. She would have been further ahead if she had allowed her father to teach her.

How often does our Heavenly Father, like Onésiphore, go ahead of us to prepare the way for what is to come, while we fail to notice or ignore it?

My mom’s oldest brother, Narcisse, once wrote that their parents were strict and that his father’s wisdom, “was a great help in my life.”[ii]

• It is not what you know, but what you do that counts.

• Never lie, not even to help others. A liar is not always a thief, but a thief is always a liar.

• The Golden Rule[iii] not only brings you peace of mind, but it also gives a good example to others.

I wish I had known my grandfather, Onésiphore[iv]. Uncle Narcisse wrote that my grandfather was the oldest of fourteen children, and loved to entertain family and friends through the art of storytelling and music. He played the fiddle, enjoyed drawing[v], and excelled at mathematics – all traits I see in my siblings and their children. His legacy lives on.

Reflection

What advice do you wish you had embraced? We might be tempted to dismiss our parents’ advice because we consider it old-fashioned or ridiculous. However, they have life experiences we have yet to gain. They may not always be correct, but most of the time, they are. Let us embrace their guidance and learn from their wisdom and experiences.

[i] “En plus, Aimé et moi avions de la misère à parler l’Anglais, dans un pays qui doit être un pays bilingue.” Excerpt from Délia from Chiasson Moments. Translation: In addition, Aimé and I had difficulty speaking English, in a country that should be a bilingual country.

[ii] Excerpt from Chiasson Moments, written in 1995 to celebrate the Chiasson family reunion and commemorate my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary.

[iii] Golden Rule: “Do to others what you would have them do to you.” Matthew 7:12

[iv] The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy about his dear friend Onesiphorus, and what a great blessing he had been to him (2 Timothy 1:16-18). I like to imagine that others said the same of my grandfather, Onésiphore.

[v] My Uncle Narcisse gifted me one of his father’s drawings, which I cherish because it connects me to my grandfather, Onésiphore.

There, [Paul and Barnabas] spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. Acts 14:1

I had sweaty hands, butterflies in my stomach, and my heart was racing. I participated in my first public speaking contest in grade six.

According to the HealthCentral website: “Glossophobia, or a fear of public speaking, is a very common phobia and one that is believed to affect up to 75% of the population.”[i] Emotions range from slight nervousness, embarrassment, wanting to vomit, mortification, to full-blown anxiety.

Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote, I joined our corporate Toastmasters (TM) club.[ii] “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”[iii] I embarked on a journey to become a better speaker and presenter. TM club members develop listening, speaking, and leadership skills by attending weekly meetings.

The Toastmasters approach is simple: practice, practice, practice. A new member receives a book with ten lessons to complete, focusing on various skills like organizing a speech, getting to the point, body language, and voice projection.[iv] Receiving thoughtful and constructive feedback is essential for improving the following speeches. We also learned the importance time management and removing filler words such as ahh, soo, and umm from our vocabulary. Mrs. Roosevelt was right: with each speech, I gained strength, courage, and confidence. Over time, I delivered effective presentations, asked insightful questions, and shared new ideas during department and corporate town hall meetings.

During my fifteen-year membership, I met so many accomplished speakers. My TM friends spurred me to go outside my comfort zone by participating in contests, holding club executive roles, and serving as Area Governor for a year, overseeing the growth of five other TM clubs. This program significantly improved my speaking, presenting, and communication skills. I received the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award. Glossophobia? I faced my fear and conquered it.

Reflection

In biblical times, Jews and Greeks believed in Jesus because the apostles Paul and Barnabas effectively shared the gospel. Imagine doing the same when sharing your testimony, presenting a new idea to your manager, or advocating for those in need. Through the art of being a good speaker, use your voice for the glory of God.

[i]https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/anxiety/glossophobia-fear-of-public-speaking

[ii] www.toastmasters.org

[iii] Eleanor Roosevelt was the First Lady of the United States during her husband Franklin D. Roosevelt’s terms as president (1933 to 1945).

[iv] Toastmasters has an updated format and approach from when I was a member.