Most of my (perhaps five) readers know that last fall my little girl was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, just weeks before her 10th birthday. The blow felt devastating, and we have a long road ahead of us. With the new year, I began reading Streams in the Desert, a well-known devotional, in which I found the following poem:
“But you will not mind the roughness nor the steepness of the way,
Nor the chill, unrested morning, nor the searness of the day;
And you will not take a turning to the left or the right,
But go straight ahead, nor tremble at the coming of the night,
For the road leads home.”
So strongly did it touch my heart, I resolved to commit it to memory. This rough and steep way involves carb counting, insulin dosing and glucose checking. It may mean sleepless nights battling stubborn lows, mornings dealing with highs that make her angry and aggressive. Grief must be faced head on, not turning to denial nor succumbing completely to depression. "Be brave, my soul, fear not the long years ahead, for the road leads home, to Jesus, who is with you every step of the way."
May this poem renew your courage, too, in your life's unique challenges.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
For the Road Leads Home
Monday, January 12, 2015
Book Review
Blush: A Mennonite Girl Meets a Glittering World by Shirley Showalter
On the rolling hills of South Eastern Pennsylvania, I grew up in a singular church group. Or so I thought until I read Blush over the new year holiday. In this frank memoir I found myself and the people of my childhood, with changed names and identifying circumstances. Somehow I clicked with Shirley, and she seemed to be my lost friend. With great literary talent she describes growing up Mennonite, remaining loyal yet truly objective.
One thought that impressed me is that restraint, so often thrown off by independent Americans, can actually build the character in us to withstand the temptations and trials that life brings our way. Reflecting on my own experience, I believe she has some wisdom to offer us. Pick up your own copy, and see for yourself!