Yes, I know the picture doesn't even come close to fitting the headline. I just know the message of The Cross, of Christ, is the most important message of all.

I want to talk about the flu. Yes, the flu. A three letter word that haunts most families at some point between the months of, well, all the months, lately.

Let's review the symptoms, shall we?

1. The all encompassing headache that throbs like a stroblight behind your eyes, flashing its annoying light into your now fuzzy-feeling brain.

2. Fever. Now I have to say I've had some of the best (weirdest) dreams ever under the fog of a fever. It's kind of like self-made morphine. Between the chills and ferocious flames, you float along in a seemingly psycodelic (sp?) world. Yes, as an X drug user I find some strange satisfaction from a fever-induced dream.

3. The rattling cough. Nothing to enjoy here. Unless, of course, you find pleasure in practicually upchucking your lungs. Need I say more?

4. Achy body. Okay, this sympton is slightly harder to explain. Let me try. For me, even the gentle caress of a cool sheet causes pain and suffering and a finger-nails-on-the-chalkboard rush of shivers. Icky!

5. The Tummy Tantrums. The ever-pleasant vomiting, waves of nausea, and the big "D" word. Unfortunately, these tummy tantrums often come in pairs if you know what I mean. Where's the trash bucket? I can't get up to get it! Help! -- syndrome.

Now, of course, I could add the sore throat from H. E. double hocky sticks, and the runny or ultra-clogged nose, but I'm quite sure you now know exactly what type of ailments I'm referring to.

I'm able to share these highlights with such efficiency because my family has been attacked by this three-letter-word for the past six weeks. It starts with Jordyn, jumps to grandma, then to Jade, then to me, then back to Jordyn ... the cycle rages on. My nine-year-old daughter lost 13 lbs. during her ten-day stint.

Why am I sharing all this? Well, to let everyone know I'm feeling more than slightly overwhelmed with life and all that it encompasses.

HOWEVER, even after all my whining, I know that we will get through this and life will go on according to God's plan and purpose. My complaining is getting me nowhere. When, in fact, I have a precious friend who was just diagnosed with colon cancer.

This man, just 35, in normally good health, with no major bad habits to speak of, and a young wife and children depending on him, is facing this battle head on without whining, complaining, and without giving up. He even stated that he has been closer to God through this process. His first book is coming out in June right when he will be facing chemo and surgery. He is a trooper.

We may be faced with the flu and an array of hardships, but it is important to remember there is always someone struggling with situations far worse than our own. We can get so caught up in the "poor me" syndrome that we fail to see the pain and suffering that surrounds us. And, amazingly, the cure for everyday blues is finding a way to help someone else.

I'd like to help my friend, Michael Delosso right now by starting a prayer chain. If you would like to join me in praying for this dear man, please send me a note and let me know. Please pass this need on to everyone you  know. The truth remains that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. This means that there is healing available to modern day folks like you, me, and, of course, Mike.

If you'd like to send Mr. Delosso an encourging word, visit his blog. You will also find cancer related support and information. Even in his trail he is sharing hope as he seeks to hang on to his.

www.mikedellosso.blogspot.com.

Remember, even if you're facing the flu, or something far worse, a prayer can still be prayed. So, let us pray!

Dear Heavenly Father,

There are so many sick, hurting, and hungry people in our world. It can, at times, seem overwhelming to pray. We wonder if our prayers even matter. Your Word tells us they do. We may not see the results immediately, but we are told to pray without ceasing about everything. Right now, I'd like to pray for Michael Delloso, one of the kindest men I know. I pray for his total and complete healing, but most importantly I pray for your will. I know you are continuing to use Mike's honest sharing to touch other hurting people. You have a plan and purpose for his life. Please give his family strength to endure the challenges ahead as overcomers in You. Thank you for igniting others to pray on his behalf.

In Jesus' Name, we pray.