Over the last 6 months since my book, What If It’s Wonderful?, released, I’ve heard from a few people that they are eager to read it but don’t feel like it’s the right time as they are not currently in a season of celebration. “What does celebration look like for someone like me who is suffering?” they understandably ask. . I was reading the book of Ruth the other day and a quote from Naomi stood out to me. Naomi was recently widowed and her daughter-in-laws (foreigners in their land) told her that they wanted to follow her back to her homeland and stay with her—an arguably sacrificial move given the familiarity and potential opportunities they were leaving behind. Naomi’s response was interesting to me. She concludes her objection by saying, “My life is too bitter for you to share.” (Ruth 1:13b). While Ruth doesn’t listen, Naomi attempts to reject the help. . Naomi’s response stood out to me because isn’t that how we often respond to offers of help and demonstrations of love when we are in need? “Don’t worry about me, I’ll be okay!” “Oh I wouldn’t want to inconvenience you.” “You’re too nice.” “I don’t want you to have to do that.” “I don’t want to be a downer.” The celebration of receiving is one we often overlook. It’s a vulnerable experience to receive—to acknowledge our need for help and to receive love and affirmation that comes through the willing sacrifice of others. But receiving is one of the best ways we can celebrate in our suffering, even as we are enveloped in pain. Receive the love and celebrate that you are inherently lovable. Receive the help and celebrate that you are never alone. Receive the hope and celebrate that Jesus’ death and resurrection made hope a forever good idea. . Say yes to that offer of a meal. Let someone accompany you to your appointment. Allow someone to sit and cry with you. Let someone give you a ride home even if it’s out of their way. Be bold in asking for prayer...Receive. . P.S. this is an actual photo taken on my morning what a few months back! This is the picture I want for us as we suffer and celebrate shoulder to shoulder. . #whatifitswonderfulbook