Awakening

The last three months of 2021 were heavy on my heart and shoulders. After experiencing a fantastic wedding season for our middle son through the summer until the wedding in early September- the decline of my father’s health took over my attention.

A diagnosis of advanced colon cancer in July left no doubt as to what would happen. At 90 years of age he declined treatment that would not cure but only prolong life for a short while. We were all in agreement.

October brought the decline of Dad’s health. November brought emergency major surgery for my husband which took him out of commission for six weeks with a slow re-entry into work and life. December brought the peaceful death of my father and a trip with my brother to Mississippi to bury him.

I was able to compartmentalize my emotions and loss so that I could enjoy the Christmas season with my family. I needed to enjoy that time – to hold tight my children, husband, and extended family and friends.

January I started to process those emotions and the loss of my last parent. The ending of a chapter in life and the start of a new one.

I don’t know everything the future holds. I know there are still many changes to come. I don’t know if I’ll pick up writing again. I’m resting on making daily choices for now (which truthfully is all we can really do).

I’ve learned I can bend without breaking. I’ve been reminded that God is faithful. Today is a new day.