I received the note cards in the Mail from the National Park Foundation. One of the cards depicted a Joshua tree. I did a bit of research and Discovered the tree is a symbol of Faith and hope because the plant Survives in barren adverse conditions. The branches reminded the Mormon settlers of Joshua raising his Arms to pray; thus, its name. I sent the card to my friend. I told her she reminded me of the Tree. She has faced cancer with trust and Courage. She thrives in the most desolate Circumstances, drawing strength from An inner source that cannot be Shut off. I told her she is a prayer warrior, Praying with compassion because she Knows the power of intercession. I posted a picture of the tree on my Refrigerator, and I told Penny that From now on I will see her as my Living, breathing Joshua tree. |
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Trials and tribulations.
Why do some folks, like my Friend, face so many of them? During one of her many stints in The hospital, when Lori was At a low point, both physically and Emotionally, a new nurse Entered her room. As she attended to the medical Equipment she began to hum a Melody. "I know that song," Lori told her, And together the angel nurse and My friend sang, "It is well with my Soul." The timely words gave Lori the Courage to suffer on. The song was the first of many for The pair during Lori's lengthy Hospitalization. My friend still endures ongoing Pain, dialysis and ports that Just won't hold up. "I won't get better." she shared with Our Bible study gals, "but I know I'm Never alone. I'm grateful." Lori's tender story pointed out to us the Power of a song, The power of an encouraging word and The power of a sensitive nurse. When I'm sidelined it's humbling to know the world goes on without me, quite well.
I want people to call, but I don't want people to call. It's tiring to talk on the phone. I want people to bring food, but I don't want people to bring food. I have no appetite. I weary of answering the question, "How are you feeling?" I'm never sure of how I'm feeling. When I finally venture out, I feel a bit guilty. I am greatly relieved to discover that I didn't infect my family or friends. I gain compassion for people who need to be confined for weeks on end. Proverbs 19:21 hits home: "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." The letter was from my
Condo association explaining Payment updates. (Always an increase.) But who can understand legalese? Not I. I called for help. A delightful young lady from a Distant state assisted me. "Your account is fine," she said. "Nothing needs to be done." "What a relief!" I told her. "I'm recovering from Covid, and You made my day." I hesitated and then asked, "Do you have a prayer request?" She considered for a moment. "My grandma has lung issues. You can pray for her." "I'm happy to pray for her. What's her name?" It was Connie. "I like to write poetry," I told the Sweet stranger, and gave her my Blog address. "I like poetry too," she answered. I could sense her smile as we said Good-bye. Being confined at home makes Divine appointments difficult, but not Impossible. I notice the bits of debris on my
Carpet and drag out my sweeper. I can't stop myself from doing a Load of laundry. I gobble down a few bites of a Warm chicken pot pie that Someone has dropped off on my Patio. Outside it's rainy and dreary. But inside, my spirits are Gradually lifting, Right along with my covid Symptoms. The Christmas concert was this
Afternoon, and I am scheduled for The nursing home tomorrow. I've planned holiday affairs for Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. And best of all, Saturday is our Family's annual Christmas Gathering at the farm where I Grew up. But this morning, every event was Cancelled. My home test confirmed my Suspicion. I have Covid. I'm huddled under blankets trying to Stop shivering. I'm achy. I feel lousy. But friends have been offering to Help. I'm cozy in my home as the wind Blusters outside. I've got food and crossword Puzzles on hand. Nevertheless, I just can't believe I Caught Covid. The fiend wrecked all my plans. But it will be interesting to see what God has in mind. It appears He wanted me to slow down and Dust off my primer for learning to trust.
It's not yet been a year since
Her husband died. He endured months of chemo Before it was no longer effective. And now his precious widow has Breast cancer. I wonder whether it will be Helpful or hurtful to remember his Ordeal, to know what to expect; Probably a combination of both. But my friend's cancer has Been caught early. May she recover and may she Discover that God's grace will Be sufficient for her once again. I became his Facebook friend six
Years ago, after Jack died, and Because of his spiritual depth and Transparency in his writings, I ventured To share my own thoughts as I Faced grief. He was my inspiration. I wear one of his quotes on my shirt: "If it's not slow, is it even a walk?" He was my daughter's teacher, and My granddaughter's as well. No one left his class untouched by His humble spirit and genuine Love for them, or by his unique Humor, often laughing at his own Expense. Over the years Al suffered, And suffered. His wounds deepened his faith, And he graciously shared the truths God taught him in the furnace. His announcement today was Shattering: "I have liver cancer... The prognosis is 4-6-months." Along with hundreds of others I responded, "Oh, dear Al, I am stunned. What will we do Without your profound messages? You will leave a spot that no one can fill. But you showed us how to live, and now You will show us how a believer dies, Snug and safe in the arms of our Shepherd." Until God takes Al, he will continue to Teach us by his writings and his Example. And who knows? I may beat him there. But I don't want to save my accolades for a Funeral. I want him to know that he is my mentor, a Kindred spirit, a godly example of a life Lived for God's glory. Thank you, Al Iten, I love you. My friend is dying of cancer, the
Same type that took the life of Alex Trebek. I sorrow with him and his dear Wife, and I raise the same Question again. Why? I can't help but ask it when a new Tragedy arises. And I always get the same answer: "In the world you will have tribulation..." * Expect it. Endure it. Wring meaning from it. Cry out to Him in it. Weep and wail. But know and be consoled. In the morning there will be Joy. ** *John 16:33 **Psalm 30:5 |
Dorothy Kalb Hsu Seitzinger
Writing poetry has helped me process and express my sorrows and joys, my concerns and blessings. "Life is hard, but God is good!" Archives
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