Life is Fragile
This morning did not start out as I had envisioned when I was planning my day last night. I was eager to finish the last round of edits for my latest book and expected to have that done by lunch time. Instead, I found myself in the ER, awaiting a Doppler Imaging exam to rule out DVT (a blood clot). Let me first say – Praise God – no blood clot!! It was diagnosed as an overuse injury of my lower leg. Apparently, I have been a little overenthusiastic during my daily cardio workout…
But here’s the thing. When I called my primary care doctor’s office to schedule an appointment, the last thing I expected was to be told to go to the ER. I had an office visit in mind, with an exam of my calf, and perhaps a prescription for an anti-inflammatory. The thought of a possible blood clot had crossed my mind, but I had quickly shoved it away. I didn’t want to be an alarmist, and from what I knew of blood clots, that might not end well.
As I quickly went about the business of getting ready to head to the ER (change, wash up, grab a bite to eat) I reflected on the fragility of life. Psalm 103:15-16 came to mind,
The life of mortals is like grass,
they flourish like a flower of the field;
the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
I found myself not as uncomfortable with the thought of dying (a blood clot is considered a medical, possibly life-threatening emergency) as I thought I would be, which surprised me. I analyzed why and realized it is because as a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, I know where my eternal destination will be. But then my thoughts turned elsewhere. I began to pray and asked God not to call me home yet. I wanted to have more time on Earth to spend with my husband Phil, son Josh, and daughter-in-love Naomi, among others. And I didn’t think they would be prepared for me to go.
Our visit to the ER went as smoothly as I had ever experienced. The nurse immediately brought me back to a room and the doctor came in to examine me. He was very compassionate and ordered a Doppler Imaging exam. The technician was very kind and professional. The nurses we encountered were enthusiastic about their jobs and everyone made me feel well-cared for. The custodial staff was working hard to provide a clean, safe environment.
When the doctor came back in to tell us the results, he was obviously happy to share the good news that there was no DVT. He also spent time providing instructions on how to best treat the pain in my calf. I am very grateful for the care I received. Being in the hospital reminded me of the dedication I wrote for my fantasy novel, Sword of Fate:
As what often happens throughout history, we are living in extraordinary times, which has affected everyone in one way or another. This book is dedicated to all of those who have had the courage to overcome their fears in order to continue to serve our communities. You are our heroes.
My unexpected experience this morning also reminded me to be grateful for each moment. We can do all of the right things (eat a healthy diet, exercise, get enough rest) but ultimately it is God that gives us breath. We never know when our last moment on Earth may come. In light of that, let’s all try to release our petty grievances against one another. Let’s look upon each other with more kindness and compassion. Let’s walk in forgiveness and love one another.
Let us share our faith in the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God (2 Cor 1:3-4), and so that they too can be part of His kingdom.
I am so glad I do not have a blood clot, but I am also grateful for the reminder that each moment is precious and to live fully in the present. Maybe that means using screens less and interacting with people more. Maybe it’s recognizing the people around us and greeting them with affirming words. Maybe it’s intentionally looking through eyes of gratitude as we move through our days. Maybe it’s reaching out and mending fences. Maybe it’s making time to show your love by being present with someone. Maybe it’s simply resting in the love of God, taking time to commune with Him through prayer and worship. Maybe it’s all of those things…
