As I look out on this perfectly beautiful day, I am thinking of my friends. Remember I told you that the spot of the road I am currently on can lead me to have a little self pity. After five breast reconstruction surgeries in 2011 following a mastectomy, I thought all was over and 2012 meant no more procedures. However, the final graft is not finding its way to full life...and I want to pout. But I just can't...because I have a mere pot hole in my road, and my friends have been shoved off the road into the deep valley. My longing is to take the trek and phsically walk through that valley with my friends, and I know I will, just not today. Today I will pray for them.
I am learning that it is not always possible to do something that seems meaningful for another person, but it always possible to send a note of encouragement, pray for their comfort and know that God is the ultimate provider for them and for me.
A high school classmate (a funny, strong and wonderful woman) is recovering from a heart/ double lung transplant. I hear that she is mouthing the words thank you to nurses who are no doubt doing their best, but cannot touch her discomfort...and I should focus on a dying graft...I don't think so now.
Olivia, one of my two precious great nieces is recovering from a bone marrow transplant and dancing in the hospital for all to see...and I am reminded of the joy that God alone can bring.
And then there is my friend, Catherine, for whom I have made far too little time this year as she walks back into life after receiving a kidney transplant. I am sure the recovery process and medications required make for a significant challenge. A long road.
My friend of 38 plus years is watching both parents struggle through what appears to be the close to their journey on earth. It means for her weekly trips to another state to be the nurturer to them that they were to her growing up...and though she doesn't want them to suffer, it will hurt like hell to have them removed from her physical presence. Makes me want to go and assist...cook meals, do laundry, sit and comfort...but I sm several states away trying to avoid wallering in self pity. So I will pray, and make that call, and send that card. God will do the rest.
In 2012, I challenge myself to demonstrate caring in a tangible way. I will buy postage stamps and cards and send notes when I have no idea what to say. I will leave the message on the answering machine saying, "I care," and I will pray fervently.
How can you walk through the valley, and hold someone's hand?
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