Practicing Gratitude
Leah and I worked hard to build structure and meaning into our days in Memphis. For a couple of weeks, it felt like we were sleeping in a hotel every night. But it was clear we weren’t on vacation, and given all that had to be done, we needed to forge some kind of plan for our day-to-day existence there. My mother-in-law became an integral part of that plan, as she would travel to Memphis at least once per week to spend the morning with Annelise while Leah took Asher to his daily appointments, and I made some feeble attempt at working remotely.
The one-room nature of our accommodations meant that bedtime came quickly for all. Occasionally, I would slip out to go sit on a seat in a common area, but that was rare. But before bedtime, we tried to be consistent in working with the kids on thinking and memorizing a particular scripture for the week, and, before we would end the day with some time in prayer, we would spend some time voicing gratitude. Doing so was a consistent reminder of the open-handedness and helplessness of my position. And there was always something to be grateful for.
February 18, 2019 Update:
As always, thank you for continuing to pray for and support us, and seek to serve us in so many ways. One of the positive changes to our bedtime routine with the kids has been where each family member is given a moment to talk about something they are grateful for from that day. And it’s so easy for everyone to give those examples of gratitude.
One specific way in which God is answering your prayers is that Asher hasn’t yet gotten sick (nausea, vomiting, etc) from the treatments he is receiving. Both radiation, and at least one of the medications he is taking have nausea as a potential common side effect. It’s been a blessing to not have to manage that alongside his other issues. Please continue to pray that he would not feel ill during treatment.
This week, we reach the halfway point of our 8-week stay in Memphis. We’ve had some wonderful opportunities to spend time with family and friends, which makes us grateful, and yet reveals how homesick we are. When you know that you’ll be going home in a few weeks, it’s easy to forget that each day is very precious. Pray that we continue to be mindful of making the most of the time we have, no matter where we are.
We have a clearer picture of the weeks following radiation treatment now. Pray for us as we make concrete plans for how we spend time at home, as well as a few fun trips we will take as a family before we return to St Jude for a clinical trial.
Finally, please pray for the hearts of our children, and pray for Leah and I as we try to be consistent in pointing our kids toward Jesus as our only hope in life and death.