Yesterday I heard an elderly gentleman from my church remark that he couldn't believe how fast 2012 is already whizzing by, that we're already into the second week of February. Then he looked at me with concern in his eyes and said "I think it's been a good while since I've talked to you. How are you getting along?"
By the look on his face and tone of his voice, I knew he was referring to my "condition." And that's when it dawned on me. January had come and gone and I hadn't even realized it! I mean, of course I knew January was over and we had moved full steam into February. But it's the first time in the four years since receiving my diagnosis of multiple sclerosis on January 23rd that the date had slipped by without me even giving it a thought. The date which was so monumental just four years ago had moved back to being a date on which I simply wished two special people in my life a happy birthday.
Ahh, God has been so faithful and good to me! Four years ago my life was turned upside down and I was left with a choice. I could dwell on it and let my days be all about me and my circumstances, or I could learn to truly step outside of myself and ask God to show me each day how I might be of use to Him. This blog chronicles many of those early days of my journey, and it's so amazing to me when I go back and read some of those posts to see and realize all that God has done in my life.
What I've learned is that our lives really aren't so much about us as they are about other people. I have complete trust and faith that the best life is the one that will come after my time on this earth. My days here are numbered just like everyone else's, but they are so much richer and more blessed when I commit them to the Lord for His purposes!
Does that mean every day is easy and wonderful? Of course not. Some of them downright stink. But I know where to find my joy, and it's not in my circumstances.
That's why when my elderly friend asked me so sincerely how I was getting along, as realization of the date dawned on me I was able to respond with the same sincerity, "I'm great!. Thanks for asking. I'm really great!"
Praise God, the One who brings you through what He brings you to!
2 comments:
Tracy, I remember that day and praying for you. How kind of God to make it "just a day" and glorify Himself through your daily trust in Him. You are truly a blessing, my sister!!
Kim, the blanket you gave me during that time is still my fave. The family knows it's "mama's green blankie," I get territorial over it! :)
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