Bottles of Tears

When Chris and I were in college, he would often tell me stories about another Chris – Chris Wheeler. Chris and Chris went to high school together. Chris Wheeler is a year older and made a significant impact on the life of my Chris. I’m pretty sure Chris Wheeler has made a significant impact on most who have had the privilege to know him. Many years later my Chris found himself working with Chris Wheeler’s dad (an amazing man). Through that relationship we were able to keep up a little bit with Chris, his wife Lindsey and their young daughter.

We celebrated with them from a distance when they became a mom and dad.

We listened to stories about them told by Chris’ proud parents.

Our hearts broke when we heard Lindsey was diagnosed with Lyme disease.

Lindsey spends most of her days in pain. Countless tears shed. BUT she is choosing to love others despite her circumstances. Last spring she began collecting vintage bottles and filling them with the reminder of Psalm 56:8. Bottles of Tears was birthed out of Lindsey’s own tears. Now they are used to bring hope and comfort to the broken and hurting.

Last spring I ordered one for a dear friend facing unimaginable loss. I asked Lindsey if it would be okay if I shared about Bottle of Tears on my blog. I can’t imagine the constant pain she is living in, I get grumpy when I get a headache. I don’t know what it is like to live in pain like she does. I am so inspired by the way she is using her life – even her pain – to think beyond herself.

She sent me a Campbells bottle – it makes me happy, happy.

I feel like I go through seasons when so many of those I love are facing really difficult times. Lots of tears shed. Lots of loss of hope and feeling forgotten. A good friend recently told me that when she walked a very hard road, it was little reminders that she wasn’t alone that meant so much – gift cards, notes in the mail, texts, etc. Maybe today you are reminded of a friend walking a bitter road…and maybe a little reminder is all you need to do something to help that person know they are not alone. A card in the mail. A text. A bottle with words of hope. A gift card. A meal dropped off. We usually can’t take pain away, but usually can do something to ease the burden even if it is tiny bit.

You can find out more of Lindsey’s story here.