Today, my family had a mini-reunion. We all met at my parent’s house for lunch. It was a great time of seeing my nephews and nieces. We took pictures and recounted stories of growing up together. Among the various stories, we talked about neighborhood nicknames and how certain people received their new identities. Names like, “horse-ankle” or “stu-bum” are chiseled into my mind from childhood. Awe, days gone by.
I also dropped by to see my friend John (see Dec. 28 entry), and it had been a better day. John gave me an in depth description of how his MS would flare up, specific times when he would experience a type of mental fog as he moved through the day at work. During these times it would seem as if the edge of his vision would go white and his ability to respond was dull to the point of non-responsive to every day activities – someone name, a color, etc. John recounted with lucid detail how he felt knowing that during these times it was his brain being attacked by the MS. Its like watching an operation on TV, yet its your body being operated on as you watch. I prayed with John and a friend who had come to help him do chores, and left comforted by the fact that he is looking to the Master-Healer during these difficult times.
I spend my last night at home sitting with my mom and dad watching some old movie. It has been a good time to visit home. It has reminded me of how good it is to have a God who is so majestic and powerful. Capable of meeting needs and mending hearts to seek after Him.
I just helped my Dad get into bed. He was very tired from the days events, like a balloon that had run out of air. I spent a last couple of minutes of our day cracking jokes as I stood beside his bed. Before I left the room I leaned over my father and rubbed his cheek with mine – my fuzzy, unshaven cheek (my Dad doesn’t like beards). He laughed. I told him that I loved him and would see him in the morning. It was a time that I will never forget. A time the strong helping the weak. The able serving the unable. A father and a son.
It has been a good visit home.
Ironic. How many times did your Dad tuck you in. Now the role was reversed. I’m sure you’re grateful for the opportunity to have experienced that.
Dan,
As I read about you and your Dad I am taken back 5 years ago when my Mom had heart surgery and for nearly 5 months was told she may not make it. She will tell anyone that asks that God had better plans! I remember the times of speech therepy, learning to walk and eat again for my Mom. As I read your blogs tears fill my eyes as I remember the long struggle my Mom endured. God has used what she went through in a great and mighty way many times over. I just got off the phone with her and she is enjoying a great game with her hometown Carolina Panthers “whipping up on” (her words) the Atlanta Falcons. Dan, I just tell you to enjoy every little moment. They are gifts from God. We continue to pray for your Dad….