After a sigh of relief and a big "Thank you Jesus," the recovery began. The long recovery began. There were hours of just sitting and thinking. Hours of frustration too as I was unable to do all the things I normally would do. Then gradually my body healed and I was able to regain my independence, one small step at a time.
As I sit here today, eight weeks later, I am so grateful for so many things. Grateful for...
- all the prayers said on my behalf from family, friends, co-workers and even people who didn't know me but heard of my situation from others.
- my pastor and church family who came to keep John company while I was in surgery and who came up to see me after.
- my sons and their wives who came to the hospital and basically watched me sleep.
- my husband who patiently took care of me even when I had a not so pleasant disposition.
- my church family, co-workers, and friends who brought us enough food for a family of six and so many gift cards to restaurants, we had more date nights than we have had in years.
- my mom, dad, siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who prayed for me, called me, sent me cards, came to see me, texted me and checked on me in so many ways.
- my sister who traveled from Kansas and gave up her Memorial Day weekend to help out for a few days.
- Facetime that allowed me to "be there" for my grandson's first birthday party and for my daughter-in-law taking the time to let me watch him play since I couldn't do it physically.
- time to recharge and dig deep into God's word. Time to be able to listen and truly reflect on what I studied.
But most of all, I am grateful for a Lord who loves me so much that He never let go of me through this whole ordeal, who knew years ago what I would need right now and who used this journey to His glory. We never wish for trials to come into our lives but when they do, it is spiritually healing to be able to look back and see the blessings that came from it.
For those blessings I am truly grateful.
