“Grief is a part of what it means to be human in a broken world. And once you wrap your heart around that fact, your sorrows have a place to fit. You no longer consider them an intrusion in your otherwise comfortable life. No, they are integral to life.” Joni Eareckson Tada
It amazes me how many good things happen in this crazy, mixed-up ALS world, even though my nights are horrible for so many reasons, which also makes Cliff’s nights not much fun either. Last night, if he wasn’t helping me in and out of bed to go to the bathroom, he was putting the blankets on, and then when I wanted to move or turn over, he was taking them off. Not being able to turn over or get out of bed without Cliff’s help is just one of my frustrations. It feels a lot like claustrophobia. The blankets feel as though they weigh a ton, which prevents my feet from moving even the slightest.
Knowing you can’t move without help immediately makes you want to move. Despite those frustrations, really good things happen. A couple of weeks ago, I attended a luncheon at Zinfandel Grill with twenty girlfriends from high school, marking our 50-year celebration – what a joy! I thought we all looked great. We were all older and wiser and just as beautiful. They have all played an important part in my life, even though there are years between our conversations.
Also, over the past couple of weeks, I had coffee with my good friend Darrel from ITT. It seems he and I never run out of things to talk about. Another highlight was visiting with a former student from Vacaville Christian Academy, LaRay. It brought joy to my heart to visit with her and her daughter, and to see and hear what the Lord is doing in their lives. My visit with her and a note on Facebook prompted a reconnection with someone I cherish, Lisa Pielstick. Lisa has faced some major challenges with cancer, yet still has a great outlook on life. We are eager to spend some time together. And then, on Sunday afternoon, my family comes to my house with lunch, and it’s the best.
I know I have said it before, and I will probably say it again, family and friends…I believe God puts them in our lives so that we can share love, joy, and hope, as well as encourage one another. I am thankful and blessed. Another thing I know is that I really never appreciated the many people in my life as much as I do now. It is sad that we waited so long.
–Susan