I honestly think that sometimes in life, we are given a few challenges and trials to put us back on the right path.
I experienced that redirection this week as I faced my first serious medical scare in my life. I have had a few close calls in my 37 years on this planet. But for the first time, I was bombarded with the fear that I might be diagnosed with something that I couldn’t fix on my own.
Fortunately, the medical procedure was a success, removing a few problem areas that could have led to something bad later on down the road. Without going into too many details, there are a few health preventions that I will have to adhere to over the years. But I was given a clean slate this week after days of worry, stress and fears that I might be given a diagnosis that was beyond my control.
However, those days of concern followed by the day of rejoicing that I was going to be fine was perhaps just what I needed.
The day following my procedure and an optimistic outcome, the world around me seemed entirely different. As I was driving, I the beauty of a sunset across a field of plentiful crops. The birds seemed to chirp a little louder. Simple things that normally stressed me at work seemed to roll off my back. My bed felt softer that evening. My supper seemed to even taste better. And the hugs from my children lasted a little longer than normal and maybe seemed a little tighter.
It is so easy to get caught up in trivial things in life that, once you step back and really examine, are not worth your worry. The bills seem to stack up, but I pay what I can, praying that God will provide until the next paycheck. The house continues to pile up with mess and hundred of “to do” lists. But I tackle what I can, and what I don’t can wait until after watching a television show with my kids or a heartfelt talk with my husband.
There are constant reminders of some party, function, exotic vacation or “selfies” of people on social media that do not fit into my inner circle. But those conversations with my close friends began to feel more important, and the laughs and even tears were noticed more than before.
With three kids, my vehicle is a wreck inside. But I was grateful for a reliable ride to get me where I needed to go. The morning after my procedure was hectic and slightly stressful, but the few minutes I spent fixing my daughter’s hair put me at ease.
It is so easy to get wrapped up with deadlines, bills, works and errands. But a recent hug from my husband put all those worries on the back burner as I held on a little longer and tighter than normal.
My past few weeks have been filled with “what ifs” and other fearful moments as I prepared myself for my medical procedure. But after the good report, it reminded me of what truly matters in our short time here.
Money, beautiful homes, lavish vacations, trendy parties and other commitments are merely a fraction of what your life should truly be spent putting all together. A brief fear that it all could end or change for the worse reminded me of how beautiful yet short things can be.
The memories you make are far more important than your bank account. Snuggling with your children is more important than whether you finish the laundry or cut the grass. Designer clothes or fancy cars can’t hold a candle to a beautiful sunset or feeling the rain hit your face.
Your family, your true friends, your health, your faith and the awesome surroundings God places in front of you are worth noticing, appreciating and embracing.
Those are the true riches. Those are the reminders that sometimes you need a good kick in the teeth to put you back on track.
That is the road you should pursue.
That is the journey you must take. That is the battle worth fighting for.
