I sat here complaining about my body ailment when in essence I should have been thanking God. The old Baptist church songs speak of praising God through the good and bad times. And now I know exactly what they mean.
Sickness has a way of putting a lot of things into focus. Who your real friends are. Who you can ultimately rely on. Who hasn't lost their sense of personal care and concern in a McDonaldized society. These are all key components of my perspective that I have come to truly value. But people are fickle, capricious. So I wasn't surprised that the people I check on in their times of need are not the ones I heard on the other end of the phone. New friends and acquaintances wished me well, which was refreshing and reinvigorating. God has a funny way of showing me that he hasn't forgotten about me - even when I feel neglected. Remember my relationship with God mimics that of mine with my birth father. And as this is the model, it is easy to think that God above might be emotionally destitute like my earthly father.
I couldn't be anymore incorrect.
Healthcare. I have it. Unlike the vast number of Americans who are unnecessarily uninsured or underinsured.
Paid time off. Check! I can be at home still "making paper." The comparison here is too inequitable to mention so I won't provide one.
Bills Paid. The luxury and comfort of a home are major pluses. I pray so strongly now for sick folk who are homeless and desperate. God, please provide them with an alternative.
Support System. My parents and extended family are 15-20 min away. I know that this is a luxury I won't have when I move away after pharmacy school. So I am cherishing every single minute of this and Thanking God in the meantime.
Health. My sickness only lasted 3 days. Reports are saying the average right now is 5 days for most individuals looking to bounce back. But I've been working out, eating better, and getting my spiritual game up. These were all arsenal kept in storage just for a time like this. All have played to my advantage.
Off the top of my head, these are all things I almost forgot to appreciate. But I am standing here showing the deepest appreciation for my situation. It was an awakening and I am thankful for it.
With that said, off to post more. I've had a lot on my mind. And it needs to come out!
Glad to hear you are doing better, sorry so many humans failed you.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the SEVENTH pharmacy school acceptance!
Oh yeah and you should def post more; I enjoy reading your writings.
Great blog again brother...
ReplyDeleteI recently came to this realization in my life. I had to re-evaluate the friends in my life. It's a healing process and yes, it took our God to show me who was truly there for me and who wasn't.
After much prayer and evaluating .. and a lot of discussion with myself (I promise I'm not crazy), I was able to let those go who served their season and hold on to those who I felt were here for the long haul. I also was able to open up to new friends I can learn from and who can learn a thing or two from me.