By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

There is a phrase I remember as a child that causes me to look forward to the month of May with excitement and enthusiasm. Despite the depression that looms from the hard and long winter of the past several months, the phrase “April showers bring May flowers” brings a sense of hope called springtime.

Following the commemoration of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus over the Easter weekend, I kept thinking about phrases like: weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning; there is a silver lining beyond each dark cloud; these light afflictions are but for a moment; and this too shall pass.

The reality of Jesus’ death producing new life parallels with the thought of sunshine following a season of gloom and sadness. Perhaps you have heard this rhyme at some point, generally having been taught it at an early age by parents or teachers. It is a popular thing to say and hear around springtime.

“April showers bring May flowers” is a reminder that even the most unpleasant of things, in this case the heavy rains of April, can bring about very enjoyable things indeed – an abundance of flowers in May. This rhyme is also a lesson in patience, and one that remains valid to this day.

Many of life’s greatest things come only to those who wait, and by patiently and happily enduring the clouds and dampness of April, you can find yourself more easily able to take in the sights and smells of May. After all, it’s easier to love something if you begin with an optimistic outlook.

Bad thing happen, and sometimes a bad thing, later on down the line, turns out to not be bad at all, even though at the time you wouldn’t have know it. ~ Kenneth Arthur

Have you had a season of setbacks, disappointments, or hindrances? Do not be dismayed. Remember these things: weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning; there is a silver lining beyond each dark cloud; these light afflictions are but for a moment; and this too shall pass.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

We all have heard the story of the Good Samaritan who came to the aid of a complete stranger in a great time of need. But what you may not know is that in 1961 Dr. John Webb, the appointed director of Oklahoma Methodist Manor (as we were called at the time), spoke to the then Board of Directors about a great need for our community.

Dr. Webb told the story of residents who were living on campus, solely by the generosity of gifts from people across the state. He said we were not just called to preach the gospel of the New Testament but also called into action. That was the beginning of what we know as the Good Samaritan Fund.

Today the Good Samaritan Fund continues to be a vital part of the mission and ministry of Trinity Woods. It addresses the needs of current and future residents who outlive their resources. This benevolence bridges the gap not covered by Medicaid. Over the past 5 years we have provided $1.2 million in funds for residents at Trinity Woods.

“The Good Samaritan Fund is what allows us to fulfill our brand promise to our residents,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Once you move to Trinity Woods, you will be able to live out your days with peace of mind and dignity, knowing you will be cared for if you run out of money.”

A gift to the Good Samaritan Fund DOES make a difference. Remember that any gift of $300 receives a commemorative brick that will be engraved and located in front of the Community Life Center. A gift can be made as an honorarium or memorial in the name of someone who is living or no longer with us. All donations are 100% tax deductible. For more information or to make a gift, visit TrinityWoodsTulsa.com/donate.