John Lennon said, “Life is what happens while you are busy making other
plans.” The longer I live, the more I know it to be true. Sometimes “what
happens” is exciting and even better than our youthful dreams, but more often,
life brings unexpected disappointments and even loss.
I recently spent the weekend with a childhood friend whose family has faced
more personal tragedy than anyone should have to bear. Sherry’s son passed away
at age 25 after suffering more than ten years with a rare genetic disorder that
slowly robbed him of the ability to move and speak. Shortly afterwards, her
husband began a prolonged physical battle, which he lost. Then her parents’
health began to decline, and her father died. Now her mother is disappearing
into Alzheimer’s.
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Sherry and her three grandchildren,
Emma, Reilly & Halle |
Although we live five hours apart, we’ve stayed in touch. Over the years,
I’ve been amazed by Sherry’s courage and the grace with which she has handled
each ordeal. She has always been matter of fact about their circumstances but
never dwelt on their sorrow. Instead, Sherry usually found something funny or
positive to share and expressed sincere interest in what was going on with the
rest of us.
During this visit, we talked about her losses and how she is learning to
live alone for the first time in her life. Sherry said there had been times
when she thought she couldn’t bear what was happening, but she made it through
because of her faith and the support of family and friends. In visiting with
her daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren and some of the friends who’ve walked
through these things with Sherry, I caught a glimpse of the love, joy and
strength that sustained them all through those difficult times.
This courageous company reminds me of a little clump of flowers I once saw
growing out of rocky ground. The surroundings looked too dry and rough to
sustain life, yet the blossoms stretched upward with their faces toward the
sun. That’s how I see my friend, always abloom, even in the harshest
conditions. Someday soon, I hope Sherry and crew will be transplanted to a lush
garden. But in the meantime, her beautiful spirit will bless others, wherever
she may be!
The Lord is my strength and song … Ex. 15:2
Labels: courage, faith, Family, friendship
