"It's like being in a terrible storm for half of your life, and all of a sudden, the roaring waves start to calm."

Today, I realized I've made a great step forward mentally, physically, and spiritually.  For the first time in many years I'm able to "take in" the beauty of nature and to enjoy the "awesomeness" of  God's Creation as I enjoy the benefits of His wondrous blessings.

I know that sounds melodramatic, but that's the way I feel.  As many of you know, I have been battling rheumatoid arthritis for about 25 years (since the age of 27.)  Anyone who suffers from chronic pain can tell you about the ups and downs.

I'm not rid of this illness yet, but with prescription meds, alternative medicine, and God's healing power, I'm well on my way.  It's like being in a terrible storm for half of your life, and all of a sudden, the roaring waves start to calm. 

I got up this morning, felt the warmth of the sun, heard the birds singing, watched as  "mother and daddy to be" birds busily gathered twigs and assembled their nest, and watched as two squirrels out in the yard playfully chased each other from tree to tree.  These things had been going on years before, but this is the first spring in many, many years I can remember taking time to absorb my surroundings as I reflected on it's beauty.  It's like coming upon a refreshing stream when you are thirsty; you just keep wanting to drink in more and more to quench the thirst.

The Lord has lifted a load from me by clearing the way for me to retire from my job of 24 years as an administrative professional.  At times it was difficult to work, but I "hung in there" till it was time to move on.

The warmth of the sun and the joy of life filled me as I felt good enough that I wanted to wear makeup for the first time in many years.  My daughter's jaw dropped when she first saw me, and she said "Mamma, you look good!"  I hadn't heard those words in what seemed like decades.   It didn't matter if my hands had become disfigured, and I had to wear orthopedic shoes, those words "felt good."   She took a digital pic.

It felt good to hold my head up again and to engage in friendly conversation with friends, family, and complete strangers,  without the stabbing and aching joint pains.  My body feels stronger after being weakened for so long.  I remember the times my arms and hands were so debilitated, my husband had to feed me; or the times I cried out to God because I wanted to walk again. 

Yes, we must suffer at times, because, through trials  we broaden our capacity for love and compassion.  When you can see a trial coming to an end, the sun shines much brighter, and you can say, "I think I'm beginning to understand now, Lord."

-Dinah Wehbie

Oh Lord I am so blessed today

I fed myself I bowed to pray

And I hear the birds outside

They cheep about the way of pride

So thank you for the feet I have

When they don't hurt I hardly know

How good to be alive and breath

My husband and my children grieve

When I am sad I'm not alone

And when I hurt some carry on

To dry my tears and hold my hand

So thank you Lord for your great love

And for your son sent from above.
 
 

By Mary Beck