Lessons Learned from Surgery

Nothing ever happens like you plan it. After my emergency gallbladder surgery, I read online that I needed to recover for 3 days in bed and then 3 weeks for a total recovery. So, after 3 days I got up. And went back to bed. Day 4? In bed. Day 5 - back to work for the morning. Days 5 1/2, 6 and 7 - in bed again.

I've had some complications and side effects. I'm convinced the anesthesia is still in my system and making me feel tired. And today, I discovered I may have a hematoma in my abdomen and must return to pain meds. I hate to be a wimp, but it hurts.

Through it all, I've realized some things I needed to realize:
1. People love me (not all people, but some people) and have brought me flowers and meals. One of Ellen's friends came with tulips and sat on the bed and talked to me. People called and sent emails and cards. And asked my family about me at church. That all meant a lot.
2. Even as I suffered in excruciating pain and throwing up before surgery, I kept thinking about my dear friends with cancer and chemo who feel horrible all of the time... and that gave me courage to plow through and be half the persons that they are each day.
3. God is faithful. Despite being unable to work (I'm a consultant and depend on hourly projects), He has given us a peace about surviving the expense of the surgery and the loss of income.
4. My family is there for me. I knew that, but I'm usually on the giving end and seldom see things from this side. That was good for me.
5. My girls are amazing (Ann and Elle). And so are my boys (Bob, Brent and Elijah).

And finally...
During my recovery, I was taking a nap with my little grandson sleeping next to me. I woke up first and was just staring at his precious face. I studied his long, slightly curled eyelashes and perfectly formed nose. I could not get over how dear he is and how much I love him. In the stillness of the afternoon, I was soaking up the blessings of Elijah. Then he opened his eyes and looked at me looking at him. He broke into a big smile as the joy crossed his tiny face. If I hadn't been recovering, I would have missed that nap. And that smile that melted my heart. And I would have missed knowing such a deep feeling of love on this side of heaven.