Don't get up, I will find my way out: January 2011

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

R.I.P.

Yesterday I got a call from the church we attended for many years. A friend had a heart attack and died suddenly. Roger and Betsy were some of our earliest friends at that church. When I got my cancer diagnosis (almost 5 years ago now), Betsy decided I needed to be lifted up and sent me 2-3 notes a week with scripture and words of encouragement. Even though we haven't seen each other for several years now, I was one of the people she asked the church to contact when her husband died.

Please pray for our friend Betsy and her 2 boys during this time of grief. Rest in peace Roger, we will see you again someday.

Surgery

Emma's surgery on her shoulder went well. The doctor cleaned up her rotator cuff and that was about it. He said that she has severe inflammation and that there is nothing surgery can do to help her. I guess it is a "good-news, bad-news" thing. She goes in today to talk about options, next-steps and when she will be released back to work. Thank you for all the prayers and support the past week.

Gratitude

As I wend my way through the fields, fens and forests of life, I find myself changing - oh not in large obvious ways for the most part, but in gentle, subtle ways (well sometimes large, obvious and PAINFUL ways). I take with me a little bit of every place I have been. Of all the influences in my life, by far the greatest is my Lord and Savior - Jesus Christ. His grace and mercy are the reason I am still breathing and "wending." From Him, I endeavor to take the most "bits" and apply the most change.

Of great importance in my life is my beautiful wife, Emma. She is truly the love of my life and my dearest treasure. She too has displayed enormous grace and mercy in our relationship. Without her at my side I would drift aimlessly indeed. She carries my love and my pride with her wherever she goes.