Hard to believe seven months have passed since Laura’s unfortunate car accident. Also, difficult to believe is how much progress she has made during this time span and how far Laura has come. We pray for and expect more miracles now, and in the future. In the meantime, there are more developments to report. The electric stimulation is working wonders to jumpstart Laura’s muscular strength. These electrodes are being utilized primarily on both of her arms in two locations, for the wrists and for the elbows. It is exhilarating to witness Laura moving her fingers, wrists, and arms in such a fluid manner. This hasn’t happened since the morning of July 15th, 2005! Therapy video footage was shot early this week and will be posted for you to view by the end of the week. Be prepared to witness Laura’s marked improvements.

For all of you that did your Valentine’s Day restaurant thing, you must think you got one up on Laura and I. Think again! Although, we couldn’t do the dinner (that will wait till next year), we did have our celebration that included cards, stuffed animals, balloons, and one red rose. She gave me a small grin and a look that said, “Hey, buddy! Where are the other 11 roses?” While it wasn’t a dream day or one we would have planned, it was much needed for us. Thank you to all those sending emails, cards, text messages, and bringing gifts. You really picked us up for the holiday. As usual, your love and support is remarkable.

This holiday got us thinking about love and what it means to truly love as a Christian. We know that love is not a feeling or an emotion, but is found through behaviors and actions. Unconditional love expects nothing in return. Thinking more about love, there has to be more to it than this. There has to be something that separates the love expected of a believer and generally accepted love; and there is! We are expected to love and forgive all people regardless of conditions or circumstances. We must love those that have wronged us, those who have done evil, and those that are difficult to love. This is what separates Christ-like love from conditional love. It is easy to love those that love you, the challenge is not found there. Good luck on your quest to love and forgive all people, as Christ did!

BUT TO YOU WHO ARE WILLING TO LISTEN, I SAY, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES! DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU. BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU. PRAY FOR THOSE WHO HURT YOU. (Luke 6:27-28)

We love you,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin.