Seven days in a Week

I have learned a great lesson through my wonderful son's seven day stay at the Sunrise Children's Hospital this summer. My second son went iceskating and hit his knee pretty hard on the ice. Several days later, he couldn't walk and consequently was taken to the hospital for an MRI. He was diagnosed with osteomiolytis, which is infection of the bone. Several days later, the infection still was there even with the intravenous antibiotics being pumped into his body. Consequently, he had surgery on his left knee. Six weeks later he was given a clean bill of health and was as good as new . . .except for some pretty vivid memories of needles, hospital beds, and gross food.

I share this because I learned a great lesson about helping others in need. Often times, I see others struggling or facing extra trying times and I feel paralyzed. I question what I should do, what would be appropriate, etc. After this experience, I now know it really doesn't matter what I do, I just need to do something. I didn't value the visits to the hospital by my son's friends anymore than I valued the notes and candy given to us to deliver to him. I appreciated the dinners as well as the offers to entertain my other children so I could be with my son at the hospital. I was grateful for the prayers offered as well as the phone calls expressing concern. The key to serving others is DO SOMETHING, preferably something I enjoy.

When does this ride end?

Have you ever been on a roller coaster and midway through the ride felt that you just wanted to get off? The ride was not what you expected; furthermore, the quesiness in your stomach just won't go away. Well, earlier this summer I told a friend, "I have been on a roller coaster ride this year, and I just want to get off." My husband was laid off from his job the Friday before school started; I started teaching English at a middle school in October after a five year break, never intending to teach in public schools again. My husband ended up getting another job in January and I finished the school year.

Well, a year has gone by since the first ascent on my roller coaster ride of last year. I thought the ride was over; however, I am now realizing I only went once around and now I'm on my second descent. I am still teaching English, but this year I'm at the neighborhood middle school. We are adding another child to our mix of four in February. I just don't think the roller coaster ride will end anytime soon. My perspective of roller coasters has changed. I now look forward to the descents. It's amazing how a different perspective can change things. I now sit on top of the tracks looking down. Realizing blessings and miracles in an imperfect situation has been my new endeavor. I'm glad I am on THIS roller coaster and not the ones I haven't tried yet. At least I know how to teach- I've taught for ten years- and I know how to deliver and take care of a newborn. The goal in life is to enjoy the ride!