Sunday, November 18, 2007

On the Mend...

Last week had a few bumps in the road. Our little guy got hit by a nasty one-two punch of a cold and ear infection. His temperature hit 103 degrees more than once. I wasn't alarmed, but I did feel quite concerned and wished I could take away his pain and discomfort. The three of us went through a few very fitful nights and felt pretty weary by week's end.

Echoing what Jilly alluded to in her post. I feel grateful for the advances of modern medicine. Not so very long ago, a cold or fever could lead to pneumonia or a host of other serious illnesses, many of which did not have a cure. I am grateful for the light and knowledge given to man that has allowed him to better understand the human body and how to care for it and to cure many of the ailments that were fatal not so many generations ago.

On a personal level, I was grateful for the opportunity to minister to my son, with the help of a good friend. I was reminded by so doing that prayers are often answered through those around us, and by the magnifcation of their skills, gifts, and talents. I was also reminded that we, if in tune with the Spirit and willing to act, can be the means by which prayers are answered for others. The Lord's love and His tender mercies are manifest in abundance, and my family has been blessed greatly this week with such mercies.

In addition, I was impressed yet again by the character and selflessness of my sweetheart. Night after night, in the early morning hours and throughout the day, Jilly was steadfast, providing the comfort and succor only she could give to sooth Ryan, quite his tears, and help him rest. This is enough of a load, but combined with all the physical symptoms of her pregnancy, the effort required is beyond formidable. I have seen the Lord bless Ryan with what he has needed to heal and I have seen Him bless Jilly and give her strength beyond her own that has made her equal to the task of caring for him. And I know He has made me more than I am alone to serve and provide for them both this past week.

I read today from Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley that "God planted within women something divine that expresses itself in quite strength, in refinement, in peace, in goodness, in virtue, in truth, in love. And all of these remarkable qualities find their truest and most satisfying expression in motherhood." I have certainly seen the application of these truths evident in Jilly's actions during the past several days.

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