I’ll admit I was anxious, just a tad concerned. Maybe even more than that.
Open cool air, fields of cut grass,
chickens and cats, a barn to roam in…
a child’s delight.
And delight he did. For our 5-yr old son doesn’t even remember participating in this church community gathering, this annual fellowship around the campfire. Families spread around, talking and eating, sharing and growing together.
He couldn’t decide what to do first :: the bounce house? No, maybe toss the football around? Wait! Surely, the candy drop hadn’t taken place yet? For the first time since his baby days, when he could simply stay in Mama’s arms wrapped tight…
…he roamed with freedom.
And how my heart rejoiced. Even through the concern.
For years, this month in all of its glory, has traditionally brought challenges for our son. Asthma and seasonal allergies have plagued October with days at home administering breathing treatments, back and forth visits to the ER, and frustration as parents.
April and October :: October and April. They are months we hold our breath, while he desperately tries to find his.
Last spring, completely spent after another ride on this topsy-turvy health roller coaster, I prayed.
Oh, I had always prayed, inviting others to join us in a chorus of petition for stronger lungs, resistance to triggers…the list goes on. This time, I prayed for another way, less invasive options for his care.
Ways that would lessen the potential damage of various medication necessary for this boy of ours.
I prayed a lot.
Gently the Lord led as a journey of research began, a tremendous amount, leading to possibilities. Ways to hopefully counteract his body’s tendency to respond with alarm to outside air, animals, grass, trees.
We changed our diet. Again. Worked earnestly at building up immunity, invested in other preventative measures and natural remedies.
I didn’t know if it would work. Honestly, I don’t know if it has fully.
But I do know that my son,
excitedly anticipating the adventure,
planning for days at all he might do,
liberated for a night from his own body’s struggles…
…played, laughed, otherwise completely immersed himself into the enjoyment of the evening.
Without coughing. Without fighting for air.
How can I not speak joy?
Oh Lord, I praise you. Yes, I do. I speak praise from deep down inside.
Thank you, my Friend…thank you.