Life has a way of taking some wild turns, crashing in places you’d never expect, powering down when it’s least convenient - when we thought all was well - in spite of our best attempts.
This was one of those weeks… I thought I might be dying, for real…along with my poor hubbie and both of our kids. We had food poisoning - ALL FOUR OF US! It was horrific to say the least. That fear that every mother has – the nightmare when something awful happens and you can’t protect or care for your children - it became a reality. In the very early hours of the morning it hit - we were unable to even sit up without blacking out. After a while I got up the strength to crawl to the phone and call my mother for help, while I laid flat on the cold tile floor and helpless. The only sounds I could hear were my hubbie praying fervently. My wonderful mother came over and cleaned and cared for us. She made chicken noodle soup and served us ginger ale. “Grateful” is an understatement.
24 hours later recovery is in the air. This morning, to top it off, produced a diagnosis of bronchitis for the mama of the house (yes, that’s me) along with a ticket for a z-pac!
I can’t let life affect my attitude anymore. It’s gonna get rough. It’s gonna get bumpy. That’s the nature of it all.
Even though the car wouldn’t start tonight… apparently, it sounds serious. So says my dad.
Our plans will be interrupted by unplanned crisis. All God asks is that we praise him in the midst of these things, rejoicing always.
Our family Atlanta trip was cancelled due to sickness. I wanted to see my Sis, her new apartment, and go to IKEA, but overall wellness would not allow it.
Shannon went to ATL by himself, fulfilling plans to attend a U2 concert - a birthday present too good to pass up. He needed the retreat…. the silent car ride… the social time…. I pray he will be refreshed.
Speaking of retreats - I attended one a week ago… what a strengthening time for me. The theme was discipleship. What I brought home was the simple, but important instruction from the wise women to carve out that DAILY time. I heard mention of Beth Moore’s book Praying God’s Word several times and felt compelled to dive into scripture and use it as medicine. To gird up for a spiritual flu that might be lurking. Hubbie bought the book and days later the battles began. I felt a surge of thankfulness… thankful that God had forewarned me to strengthen myself in the Lord.
So this week I have been comforted by Ginger Ale and saltines, and learned the importance of retreat…