Roses Will Bloom Again

To say that change has become the theme of my life is to admit that I have lost control. I love to know what is happening next and how it is going to come about. I want everything in its place. That has ceased to happen. I am now admitting that change is forever the theme for all of life everywhere--especially mine. It's the one thing that happens regularly. I'm just now saying that it happens regularly in my life.

My son decided that it was time for him to move to a group home. He did not “come home” from the hospital. He is out of the hospital and in a lovely home about 6 miles from here. He can walk to all of his appointments. He seems to be enjoying it very much. He is not completely settled in but he is no longer living here. He celebrated his 28th birthday last month so this presents a different way of living for us.

Saturday morning, my father-in-law came into our office much later than his usual rising time. He was still in his pajamas and very disoriented. Dwayne thought it would be best for him to see a doctor. Between that decision and leaving the house, he decided it would be best to go to an emergency room. He suffered a minor stroke. It affects his ability to process information which explains why there has been such a noticeable change in his thoughts. He says his left hearing aid is broken and he can’t see well from his left eye for a few weeks. Other than these changes, there are no classical stroke symptoms.

Now we’re home alone. We have longed for it; wished for it and wept for it yet it feels odd. We can eat dinner whenever we feel like it. We can lollygag and start our day when we’re ready. We are becoming reacquainted with no overarching need that requires us to address it. It may only be for a few weeks. I’m planning to enjoy it and embrace it even though we may be day to day caregivers again.

God, however, remains constant. None of this surprises him. He still knows my name and promises to stay with me.

Isaiah said this: But now so says Jehovah who formed you, O Jacob; and He who made you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk in the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame kindle on you. (Is. 43:1, 2)