My bucket, full of love

     

     Many of us have a so-called bucket list of special places we would like to visit or exciting adventures we want to experience before we leave this planet. 
     

     One I am about to have has never been on my bucket list. But, with my pending surgery, I am about to have my first ever hospital stay — with the exception of the four occasions of bringing my children into the world. 

     With no major health issues during my life time, I have been blessed.   

     I am looking forward to my brief stay, as somewhat of a new adventure — one that will give me better insight into our health system my tax dollars go to support. 

     During my numerous procedures and pre-surgery appointments, I have met many kind and compassionate health-care workers. I hope to see ways that I can show them my appreciation and perhaps, "scatter a few seeds of love" as well. 

     Though I appreciate all that our health system provides in care, we often are required to play the waiting game. During weeks of biding my time, my good friend Gladys sent me this reminder: 

"Sit still my child, Just sit calmly still. Nor deem these waiting days as ill. The One who loves you most has not forgotten your great need today. And, if He waits, believe He waits to prove to you His tender child, His heart's deep love."  

     Meanwhile, I have been showered with love and attention, not only from my offsprings, but through phone calls and Facebook well-wishers — friends and family, near and far — especially, son Roger's calls of concern.     

     

     Karen and Jamie's home-cooked meals have helped bring back some of the weight I've lost. 

     





     

     I've been blessed by David's consistent weekend trips from Kamloops and his creative ways in giving my home a new, post-Christmas look.

     

     Debi, Mark and Jamie have kindly driven me to my numerous medical appointments — all leaving me feeling so very grateful.  

     During all this busyness, we found time to celebrate yet another birthday for Dave — and his wife Carolyn's birthday this coming Friday (Jan. 30).

     

     Very soon, we are anticipating Debi's Groundhog Day celebration. My own, is following soon after during the B.C. Family Day holiday weekend. 

     It gives our family yet another excuse to rejoice together and be thankful.  

     Now, what ever time I have been given, I believe I am called, not to spend it worrying, but to trust — which always brings peace — and to focus on loving those around me.  

     I feel a bit like King David, when, during one of his fearful encounters said, "You are my God, my future is in Your hands."  –- Psalm 31:14-15  
       

     The advice that God gave Joshua, so long ago, seems to be just what I need now, as I carry on my journey. 




"[. . . ] Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  — Joshua 1:9




— beulah