SEAS0N OF INSPIRATION

Four years ago, I suffered a disabling stroke. During that time, I faced other health problems. Making matters worse – I lost my favorite uncle, my son’s father, and my younger sister to prison. She allegedly stole money from her job not to mention money from an inheritance that Uncle Rob left me. The rest of my family seemed to have forgotten me. I sunk into a well of depression, one I never thought I’d rise out of. Days, months, and years passed. As seasons passed, my life remained the same. I felt as if I was watching a despairing movie.
One day my daughter-in-law, Kelli invited me to lunch with her parents and a couple of family friends who were celebrating their forty- eighth anniversary. I went along even though I expected to feel uncomfortable. The friend’s wife was in stage 4 lung cancer. Kelli had told me of her friend’s mood swings and harsh treatments.
Kelli’s friend. Martha showed up at the restaurant with her husband. They were all smiles, just like any couple celebrating an anniversary. During the lunch the couple joked and laughed. Martha’s hair was growing back nicely. To any stranger walking in, Martha and her husband looked like everyone else. Everyone enjoyed their meals and the conversation.
I watched Martha closely. She never mentioned the cancer or the unfairness of it all. She was even concerned about my health. Here I was sitting in a wheelchair feeling sorry for myself. I was considering my condition as a punishment and close to giving up but Martha was facing sure death and she was able to enjoy her life.
Suddenly, I felt like I was hit by a lightning bolt of understanding. I still had a life to live. Sure, it was a different life than before but I still had my mind and the ability to write, which has always been my dream. I still experience a few hiccups when it comes to remembering words. However, I have decided to trudge on. I count my blessings everyday especially Kelli, my son Dustin, and Kelli’s parents. I thank God for using Martha as a weapon of hope and a season of inspiration.