"Thank You, My Angels...Thank You"

I know for a fact that I'm not the only one who believes in angels. According to a poll conducted by the Associated Press (AP-GfK) last December (2011), 77% of Americans believe in angels. Furthermore, 88% of Christians, 94% of evangelical Christians and 95% of "people who attend weekly religious services" (regardless of particular religious preference) believe in angels. In addition, more women than men and people over 30 vs. under 30 tend to believe in angels.

But what about 'Earth angels?' Hebrews 13:2 of the Bible states, "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hmmmmmm....have you ever thought about that?? Ever?? Angels taking on a human form. I don't think believing in angels has anything to do with your religious beliefs or background and I don't believe you can deny the fact that not EVERYTHING can be scientifically proven. The 'practice of medicine' is just that: practice. - In it's own description, the word 'practice' implies to me that you still need to keep going until you get it ALL right, have ALL the answers and can cure ALL of the diseases, illnesses and conditions (including scoliosis) that exist in the world. Well, that's an easy one for me. It's a resounding YES. I do believe in life after death, and I do believe whole-heartedly in angels, both heavenly and earthly. 

I have many heavenly angels who sadly have passed away from a variety of things including heart disease,  heart attacks, brain cancer, ALS (Lou Gherig's Disease), diabetes complications, car accidents just to name a few. My heavenly angels include my grandparents (with exception of my almost 97 year old Nana!), my inlaws, an uncle, my 25 year old cousin, 2 college friends and many patients with whom I've had the privildge of working. I cant see them but I can feel their presence at times. In more recent weeks, as my surgery appraoches amd my anxiety increases, I often find myself talking to them, asking them for guidance, and peace. And often times, they help me in one way or another.

My 'Earthly angels' are just that...my angels here on earth. One I've known since 9th grade and one I met last year while working at a local retirement community (and you both know who you are!) Two earthly angels have seen me through the past 4 spine surgeries, putting their lives on hold so that they could be of help to me and my family. Their love, support and loyalty--unwavering. And then there is my host of aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. Other earth angels I've met through church groups, book studies and MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). Many of my earth angels are extended family members and some have crossed my path in various kind ways ways and are complete strangers. I thank God every day that He chose to bring them ALL into my life at various points in time and for various reasons. Whether friend, family member or stranger, they've all been my 'earth angels.' On many occasions, I've often thought of that saying, "if not for the kindness of strangers..." As for my family and friend earth angels, I would change that saying to "it was all due to the kindess and support of PEOPLE, my 'Earth Angels," both familiar an unfamiliar, friend, family and stranger." No matter who they are, ALL loved and appreciated by me for the various ways they've touched my life (whether they know it or not)!