Learning through illness

I have had a great deal of learning in the last two weeks. With all the busy going on and all the desire to get things done, I fell sick two weeks ago today. You'd think that by now I would be well, but I'm not. The symptoms have only been added upon, making it difficult to do much more than to rest and do the minimum required, and I don't mean a load of laundry and dishes. I mean getting a child dressed and then doing their hair after a 15 min. break. 

 It all started with a cough and congestion, two days flat in bed. Feeling like I was on the mend by one week's time, I figured it ran it's course. Amy and Steve had it as well and I had taken Amy in for an ear infection she ended up having in both ears. She woke up today announcing she felt good.

 I see this as a positive thing. Steve had two days where he was weak, so he went to bed early. He never takes time off, so that wasn't so unusual. He has to cough and spit a lot. It's become the norm around here for all of us. The chorus grows in voices each day. It's nice to have someone that has overcome it and left it behind (Amy). I felt good enough on Mon. to think I could go on my regular walk.

 It left me drained, so I took it easy the rest of the day. Tues. I started vomiting and diarrhea together with a migraine (which thankfully my neighbor gave me medicine for that kicked it). As of three days ago, I was down 7 lbs. The symptoms let up a little here and there, making me think it would go away, only to realize I was wrong. It's disappointing and often difficult to get through a day. I decided one day that I was weak due to undernourishment, although I've been able to keep down plenty of water. Standing for 3-5 min. is the max for me, so I started trying to eat more and regularly after a blessing Steve gave me told me I'd know what to eat. Turns out, I do. Problem is, my stomach hurts for at least an hour afterwords and it's everything I can do to make it stay down. 

The reason I'm telling you all of this is that I'm learning to enjoy the little things. I'm learning that when I look into my children's faces when they speak, and enjoy what they have to say, I find true joy. Complete, true, joy is something that isn't experienced all too often in this life. I don't believe we will really know it until we reach the other side, having completed our work here on this earth. But it is found in the quiet moments that are not rushed. Although this has been a challenge, I'm grateful to be reminded that it is the smaller things that bring us true happiness.

 I'm so caught up in the big things so much of the time, that I tend to forget to take time out and just enjoy each and every treasure the Lord has set before me each and every day. 

Hydrangea picking (left to right: Amy, Alyssa, Jalihya)

What a gift.