Gratitude

Over the past few days I have begun to keep a gratitude journal.  Shortly before my shoulder surgery I found the perfect journal book to keep my ‘gratitudes’ in.  I began to write before my surgery and have continued on since coming home from the hospital.  As I waited in the pre-surgery area on Monday morning I was aware of so many things for which I was grateful.  I could see God’s hand on every detail – the timing, the way medical things fell into place and the bits and pieces of pre-surgery care that are often difficult.

Before I begin to share some things I’ve written in my gratitude journal I want to say thank you to each of you who have prayed and emailed and commented and sent wishes for a speedy recovery.  Your words have meant far more than you know.  I have been filled with peace that goes far beyond understanding through the entire process and my early recovery days far exceed what I had anticipated.  I am moving slowly – but I am doing well.  The days of quiet rest are good for me in more ways than words can tell.  I am resting.  With a grateful heart.

For these things I am grateful:

- Friends who offered to help my dear, little mother with grocery shopping, errands and appointments while I recover from surgery.
- Strength and energy to accomplish a lot of things over the days before my surgery.
- Peace that couldn’t be explained as we drove to the hospital early on the day of surgery – no fear – no apprehension.  The nurses commented about how peaceful and relaxed I was.
- A nurse who understood my history and concerns about getting the IV in place without many tries and much pain.  She wrapped my hand in warm towels for a few minutes and then got the IV in on the first try!
- A wonderful medical and surgical team who were caring and who communicated every step of the way.
- Successful surgery and news that my rotator cuff was not affected at all and is in good condition!
- A good first few days home from surgery – much better than anticipated – with pain under control.
- My sweetheart’s tender care – watching over me with a gentle love – willing to do mundane tasks and go the extra mile.
- Hearing good news that our daughter-in-law does not have leukemia or lymphoma, as suspected, and that all is well with her.

‘I will sing the LORD’s praise,
for He has been good to me.’
Psalm 13:6