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Learning to pivot
Def.: to adapt or improve by adjusting or modifying something.
Much has happened since getting off the road, which was inspired by a doctor’s appointment, which, thank God, turned out A-OK. Just one layer of basal cell nastiness had to be removed, so all that teen-age baby oil sun exposure damage seems to be behind me, at least for now. The lesson: get to a dermatologist and have your skin checked. Wear a hat, sunscreen and take care of that beautiful skin of yours.
I’m only in the South Bay for a couple of weeks before heading out of town to be with my younger daughter and family as we await the birth of her baby boy. I’m going to stay with her for a few months as she adjusts to life with three babies under the age of 3. Her husband’s career-intense residency at a hospital 40 minutes away means much of the parenting is on her for now, so hopefully my presence will be helpful.
For the last week and a half, I’ve been sleeping in my van either at the Marina, the hospital parking lot, or outside my niece’s home in Malibu. It is such a cozy, homey feeling living in my apartment-on-wheels. I have everything I need to be comfortable, a bed, fridge, stove, toilet, all my clothes, reading materials and a TV. I didn’t realize when I purchased Miss Bonnie Doon from my former neighbors just how much I would l-o-v-e her.
I mentioned camping-out at the hospital(s) parking lot. It wasn’t a random destination. I was grateful to have my van to sleep in, cook nourishing foods in, to support my beloved cousin’s recovery from surgery and an unexpected heart event. I didn’t want to leave my buddy’s side in case she needed me. Being close by was a comfort—-to both of us.
While surgery to remove a troubled appendix and an adjoining section of colon went smoothly, something happened during the procedure to damage her heart, her surgeon said. Things looked pretty bad, honestly. A blockage. A weakened heart muscle. Her breathing was labored. Her skin was grey and she was incredibly weak. An echocardiogram and blood tests revealed that something was terribly wrong but the only way to determine the extent of the problem was with further blood tests and an angiogram.
She was worried. We all were worried, even though we kept the mood upbeat and positive.
I prayed. She prayed. We all prayed.
Like always, God listened.
After the procedure, the cardiologist said my cousin’s arteries were clearer than his—no blockages—and her heart showed no signs of distress. Whatever the problem was, it was gone–vanished–and the doctors had no explanation.
I know there’s science that can explain her literal change of heart, but I accept and know it for what it was/is—God did it again!
Many, many, many people don’t get such Good News. Their stories, their family members’, take medical turns for the worse; they don’t get the reprieve we did. The tears in the waiting rooms. I witnessed them. The screams in the hallways. I heard them. The troubled souls with no visitors and no place to go once discharged, are reminders of just how blessed we are.
We have each other. Family. Friends. Health. Shelter. And faith.
I have many regrets. Sometimes I look over my shoulder at past failures and regrets far too often, and long. It pulls me down into a dark cavern that makes me feel like choking. Thankfully, I’m able to climb out, see the sun, and take the hand of The One who loves me today, tomorrow, and always.
Grateful.
Overjoyed.
Humbled.
Amazed that out of all the people, of all the dire circumstances He has tugging on him, God listened to little ol’ us.
Can you see my smile? Can you feel my swollen-with-gratitude heart?
In this moment, right now, as I pivot to my next East Coast calling, my bestie is recovering in Malibu with her daughter and family and on the path to physical and spiritual good health. And so am I.
Thank you friends—-and you know who you are—-for your continued prayers. Please know that you are also in my heart and prayers.
LifeIZGood.com 
I’m so happy that God was listening and answered your prayers. It shows us that he is listening and watching over us. Have wonderful days ahead. – Debbie
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