It seems my infrequent blog posts have served as a way to mark time this month. I am either saying hello or goodbye to something. I suppose that's reflective of this season of my life. I have been both humbled and enlightened around every corner.
I shared with you earlier in the month that my brother is facing a critical illness and I am so overjoyed to report that the battle is going very well. He is not quite midway through the process and his doctor is pleased with how things are progressing.
Watching him has reminded me of how precious this life, with all it's imperfections, is. In my most childish moments I can be guilty of lamenting over the fact that my life didn't turn out just as I had planned, I can spend time in self pity and wallow in a bit of narcissistic "why me's". Believing I know what's best and that I have control of things that I don't.
"Problems are a part of life. They are inescapable: woven into the very fabric of this fallen world. You tend to go into problem-solving mode all too readily, acting as if you have the capacity to fix everything. This is a habitual response, so automatic that it bypasses your conscious thinking. Not only does this habit frustrate you, it also distances you from Me.". Sarah Young, Jesus Calling
Now I am making a more conscious effort not to go there. To spend my time being thankful for all I do have instead of moaning about what I don't have or what didn't go according my plans. I am asking my friends to pray for me to let go of disappointment, to not let it turn into bitterness and to embrace each day with a joy filled and thankful heart.
So as I say goodbye to November, I do so not clutching my hands trying to hold on or shaking my fist in frustration but with my arms wide open ready to embrace all the miracles that December has waiting.
xo, Patty
Patty your house is always so darling. Love the fall banner but mostly I am so glad to hear the good news of your brother.
ReplyDeletePatty, your post is so honest. As you quoted, it is easy for us to focus on the negatives and to forget that God only wants us to turn to him. Satan has a way of pulling our hearts away, but we cannot allow him to do that. Stay strong, take things slow. Take each moment you have with your brother as a gift. LIfe is precious, fragile and joyful. Our forever life will be precious and joyful with no worries about fragility or heartbreak ever again.
ReplyDeleteLove your clothing ensembles. You are so pretty!
Enjoy the rain....finally!
It is a good way to live life. Not every day is perfect and we have our share of troubles but for the most part, life is great! And remember, don't feel picked on, everyone has their share of heartache, but it is how we deal with it that matters. :) Kit
ReplyDeletePrayers said for you. I am also trying not to let life get me down. With mom's illness it is hard at times. But she is still with us, so am grateful for that. I love your home. It looks so nice and bright! I am so glad that things look good for your brother. Great news!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful, positive way of looking at things, Patty. I spent some of November very frustrated and yes - even having a little pity party - because of my current medical condition. I've gotten past that though, with working hard on changing my attitude, talking with friends, and prayer. I'm glad to hear things are going "OK" with your brother.
ReplyDeleteYou always know how to turn a frown upside down! I love your outlook Patty. And hooray for your brother!! What a relief.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Kris
I guess we can all think that our lives haven't gone exactly as planned but we are still so blessed.
ReplyDeleteAfter going through leukemia with my dad last year...I kind of understand how you are feeling. An illness like that is humbling, terrifying, and in some ways good for us. Good because it makes us remember exactly what is important.
So very true... we try to fix the problems without always looking for the blessings. After my dad's fight with fight with cancer, I try to see the blessings everyday. So good to hear things are alright with your brother. Praying for your brother, you and your family.
ReplyDeleteYay! We CAN rise above our problems...and find joy in the 'everyday' gift of life that we are given. It's true we can't move forward ...while wallowing in self pity. You are a happy and strong woman. Your family...including your brother...most likely appreciate that about you!
ReplyDeleteBring on DECEMBER!
I wrote you a nice long comment which has likely forever disappeared into the abyss of the cyber world!! The heart of what I wanted to tell you is that I am praying for you and your family daily. With much respect and love.
ReplyDeletePatty, I'm sorry your brother is sick but glad that you are feeling encouraged by his progress. It's hard when we feel helpless!
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