There have been a few times in my life where the experience of this life is transcended. Sometimes it is the metaphorical perfect storm, other times there is quite literally a perfect storm that graces our lives. For better or worse, we choose to embrace that which we desire and are prepared for. Otherwise, we might just miss the purposes behind these gifts and a make-up lesson waits in store.
My parents did their best to raise me as a saint... Even with their best intentions and proactive efforts, I managed to find my own path in life. I can remember mom's freshly made chocolate chip and walnut cookies available for the taking. I don't recall there being a hard and fast rule dictating a limit on the number of scrumptious morsels we could consume. Heck, mom always made at least a double batch and half would go into the freezer. I am the youngest of four children in our family. My brother Toby being the oldest, was my arch nemesis and biggest competition in the consumption of goods and goodies. Our sisters Deanna and Gerberta usually had their share but were hardly adept at the art of piggery. Looking back, I recognize those precious bonding moments when Toby and I would decimate a full jar of cookies and the better half of a gallon of milk. When mom made spaghetti, we would inhale plate after plate as if we would never have an opportunity to eat again. Truth be told, there were times when we did not have much more in the house to eat other than canned fruit. Our parents were hard working and made every effort to provide the best of opportunities for us but the rent easily depleted half or more of their income. Dad was not too prideful for welfare, however I know how deeply it cut him when he was unable to provide the basic necessities. But I digress...
At least every six months during my childhood, I would find myself doubled over in pain on the bathroom floor paying the price for my gluttonous choices. Truly these real life consequences held more sway than any corporeal punishment (of which I've had my share) in teaching, influencing and guiding my future decisions.
By now, you may be wondering what any of this has to do with the photo above? Well... I love God and strive to recognize his hand in all things. Life and all its intricate parts are constantly calling out to instruct us and entice us to action. A year ago today, my family and I were experiencing the first of four months in Florida for my oldest son's medical intervention. I will address his history in more detail later. There are times in life when we feel inspired, motivated and perhaps even superhuman. More than a handful of times, I have been charged in no uncertain terms with a task from God. More than a feeling, more than urgency but an assignment that must be fulfilled and there is absolutely no room for doubt. Sometimes the task is simply accomplished through an act of kindness. Other times, a difficult conversation is what comes along. Ok... That's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about a life changing endeavor that literally changes the space-time continuum. The very fabric of the universe is altered for synergy and serendipity to pave the way in order to accomplish God's work. After the grueling process of leaving the starting blocks and finding our stride, I soon realized that regardless of carefully pacing and planning this endeavor; it was going to be a long ride! Jaiden's femur was lengthened 8.5cm over a 90 day period of crude (almost barbaric) distraction. However, this seemingly crude process was performed by an experienced team of world class experts. Looking back on the experience is both surreal and sobering. Knowing that we will have at least two more lengthenings in the next several years is downright daunting. But knowing that we accepted and are diligent in restoring and transforming Jaiden's spiritual, emotional and physical life brings power from on high. More importantly, there is much needed peace when we do that which we know pleases Father. Serving and lifting others in Christ's name is our honored privilege. The power of the atonement can deliver eternal peace through an eternal perspective. That is what this lightning arcing through the rainbow at sunset means to me. The whisper of the Holy Spirit nudged me to pull over to capture the beautiful scenery I was presented with while contemplating the proverbial road ahead in enduring Jaiden's endeavor.
Up to that point my spirit had been anticipating some debilitating stomach cramps. A feeling of terror that I will not be able to maintain my desire to finish the work. The fruits of our previous labors had been sweeter and more miraculous than I could have imagined. The Lord carried us through and I began to doubt my resolve and capacity to make it through another season of miraculous labors.
There is opposition in all things and I'm ok with that. I just need to remember that I can't blame the cookies for my painful consequence...
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