Steve's energy level was good this morning, but by this afternoon, he was wiped out and slept from about 3:30 until 8 tonight. The pain is still much better controlled with the pump, so we're thankful for that.
Some sweet soul gave us a book by Henri Nouwen called, "Turn My Mourning Into Dancing." I started reading it this afternoon while Steve was sleeping, and wanted to share this from the first chapter:
"By inviting God into our difficulties we ground life - even its sad moments - in joy and hope. When we stop grasping our lives we can finally be given more than we could ever grab for ourselves. And we learn the way to a deeper love for others. How can we learn to live this way? Many of us are tempted to think that if we suffer, the only important thing is to be relieved of our pain. We want to flee it at all costs. But when we learn to move through suffering, rather than avoid it, then we greet it differently. We become willing to let it teach us. We even begin to see how God can use it for some larger end. Suffering becomes something other than a nuisance or curse to be evaded at all costs, but a way into deeper fulfillment. Ultimately mourning means facing what wounds us in the presence of One who can heal."
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5 comments:
We pray for strength, comfort, and healing. Thank You so much for sharing the painful details. Your lives continue to bless all who follow. We Love you and continue to keep you in our prayers.
The Pace family.
I just came upon your blog through a link on another. Although we do not know each other, please know that I will keep Steve and your entire family in my prayers!
Becky
Sheri, thanks for sharing your gift for lifting others up through your pain. You are an inspiration to us all. We thank God for your relationship with him that enables you to keep yourself from the depths of despair. We know you are such a joy for Steve to be with during this trying time in his life. We pray that the pain meds will allow him to be able to feel good again. We love you and are praying for you continually. Aunt Doris
Well! I do believe that quote just put yet another new spin on how God knows best how to minister to us through others. Steve and Sheri you've been more encouraging to me than I could possibly ever be to you. (Don't think I won't keep trying!) Your faith and strength are daily reminders to all.
I'm so thankful for the relief Steve is experiencing. Henri Nouwen is one of my favorite authors and how appropriate for his words to comfort and lift you and give you one more vehicle to bless all of us. Thank you for sharing yourself so freely.
Love,
Bettye
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