Several weeks ago we started planning a spaghetti dinner for the Zwiers family. We got to know and love this family when Derek was stationed in Yorktown and they were living in Mathews. This sweet family didn't just live here, they were a part of us. They embraced our community and our community embraced them. So when we heard of Derek's accident, we joined together to help them as best we could from far away.
Planning a big event can bring about much uncertainty. What if no one comes? What if there isn't enough food? What if it tastes bad? What if the power goes out while we are cooking? These are all very real questions that may run through your brain at a time like this, all of which are ridiculous things to ponder. Over 100 people came, which turned out to be the perfect number because we had enough food with barely any left over.
Many of the people who came knew and loved the Zwiers. But many, many people who came were total strangers. They had never met the Zwiers, but they came because they were touched by how much this family meant to this community. There was the man who came and brought over 20 family members with him. It was his birthday, and he told his family all he wanted was for them to support these people he didn't even know. Why would he do this? And then there was the lady who lives in another state. She didn't know the Zwiers family at all, but her husband was in the Coast Guard and they were touched by Derek's story. She obviously couldn't attend the dinner, but she wanted to know how she could make a donation. Why would she send money to total strangers? Why? Because the sense of community runs deep and love knows no bounds. People are good at heart and love always wins.
I'd love to be able to tell you how much money was raised but that is impossible because even though the event is over, the money is still pouring in. God isn't finished with his miracles yet! The food suppliers gave crazy good discounts. The people who came and ate left generous donations above and beyond the cost of their meal. Many who couldn't come made donations the next day and offered apologies for not being able to make it. Think about what I'm saying! In a world that seems to have gone crazy, we are surrounded by people who are not thinking of themselves, but how to help others.
Can you see yourself in this story? Maybe you worked tirelessly boiling noodles, cooking sauce, and hauling heavy pots all over the place. Perhaps you offered to make a cake. Maybe you helped set up or serve food. You might have even showed up to lend a helping hand just because! Maybe you stayed to help clean up, even when you didn't know the family at all. Of all the heroes I've mentioned here, let's not forget about the most important ones. Those are the ones who are praying for Derek, his family, and his care givers. Our God is a mighty God, and He is in the business of miracles. Thank you all for being a part of this story. I am very proud to know you and call you friend.
