Our family had four precious, pivotal days in Regions Hospital with my dad before he died. It was a defining moment for us – both as a family unit and as individuals. During the 10 years since, we have shared many memories of that time – sweet stories and devastating moments – all in the final watch over our beloved dad, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many. One of the overwhelming messages we received from the medical team was – pay attention to the process. It seems simplistic, but that is what those critical days encompassed – we were bystanders, waiting and watching as the process unfolded. And we will be forever grateful for the compassion and skilled care of the trauma team who gently cared for my dad, and all the while helped us prepare to let him go.
And today, I’m reminded again of the importance of allowing the process to unfold. In moving through recovery from my condition, I’m beginning to realize progress, but the process seems slow. I’m ready to be “back to normal” and yet, I’m not there. It can be frustrating, but at every turn I’m reminded that I have so much to be grateful for – grateful for caring providers, for a viable treatment plan and proven medicine - and so grateful for the loving support, encouragement, prayers and kindness of those around me. It makes all the difference!
Today’s painting is a reflection of another incredible process – from starting new gardens in May to watching the garden grow and thrive in this season. August Beauty, 10” x 13” on 300-lb. cold watercolor paper, captures a happy, white coneflower, which now in mid-October, is continuing to bloom outside my front door. What a blessing!
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