Reflections

Sitting in a chair/bed for 2 weeks gives one a lot of time to think, especially after coming out of a drug induced fog. Sometimes when we're forced to slow down, we are able to better see our blessings and that which we just take for granted - like walking. Don't get me wrong, I do not recommend my method of slowing down in such extreme measures. A little reflective time each day would suffice.

This experience has shown me the power of love through family, friends, and the body of Christ. Meals for my family - much better than I cook on a daily basis (yes, they are getting spoiled!). Cards from people stream in each day and I am touched that each would take the time to write them and mail them, especially in this instant society of e-mail that we live in. Random visits and phone calls - taking a few minutes out of what I know are busy days to come and just chat and make me laugh for a while. Gifts of chocolate, Starbucks, goodies for the family, reading material, and other items - all blessings. These are all reminders of God's love for me and all of us too. The fact that He connects us with people that can demonstrate a bit of His love to us.

I will look at injured people differently and with more compassion. I hope that I will take time out of my busy day (when I am back in full swing) to stop and spend some time with someone who has been unexpectedly slowed. I will try not to take for granted ordinary daily stuff that I do without thinking like walking, opening the garbage can (we have one of the ones with the foot pedal - a problem when neither of your feet can press the pedal!), being able to answer the doorbell or phone within a reasonable amount of time, playing with my kids, driving, and the list goes on.

As I reflect on the whole accident itself, I realized that it hurt more to see my daughter so upset about my injury than the injury itself. I guess that's that mother love that kicks in when you don't even realize it at the time. And the blessing - yes, we really do matter to our kids! Sometimes we have to remind ourselves of that.

So I am reminded that in all things there are blessings and in the hard times, a chance to be refined. The verse I read this morning in John 10:10 hit home with me "The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in its fullness." Let's live our lives in Christ's fullness!