Perspective

I’m awake at 3 a.m., partly from a headache, and partly because the dogs wanted to go outside and smell the dark. And now that I think about it, the first one was probably caused by the second. I’m reading a “Memories” post from several years ago, and I’m re–posting because I know there are many dealing with pain and heartache, both of which seem to double their power in the night.

I pray for you to be completely healed, that you experience a miracle right now. And I invite you to live in another kind of miracle by choosing to be grateful with me, which is what has disarmed pain’s control in my life for a long time.

September, 2012

“Post–chemo muscle and joint pain, and neuropathy in my hands, feet, and mouth. And tonight, hives on my arms and legs. Who knows why. So, I’m using the time I can’t sleep to think about what a truly fortunate man I am.

I am alive. I have another day. The night is still and beautiful. In a few hours I will feel the sun and smell the autumn air. I get to experience life, love, and laughter. I get to taste really good things. I get the chance to bless someone else. I get to watch my wife breathe as she sleeps. I get to cover my face with a pillow because both dogs have really bad gas. I don’t care. I am so grateful to God for each moment.

We have eternity in heaven, and sometimes I wish I could be there already. But, I think if we only have a short time here, it must be so important to make the most of it. I think how we live here isn’t just about believing in Jesus, but an opportunity each day to overflow a little more love from him than the day before. Love is the most important thing you leave behind, because it’s the most important thing you do. And it’s the one thing you take with you.”