reaction

I have been talking, this week, with several people about our "reaction" when we get asked to do something, told to do something or we get the phone call we are NOT looking forward to.  I was at a meeting, with my District Superintendent, about a possible student appointment in the Rio Grande River Valley.  I was a student, in seminary, in Texas and I even promised to "work" on my Spanish.  I got home from said meeting to see a light blinking on my answering machine (remember those?).  I took my dog for a l-o-n-g walk.

Yup, it was my family calling to tell me Dad could no longer live by himself.  I needed to move but NOT to the Rio Grande River Valley.  (Every time I have to shovel snow I remind God I was asking for the Rio Grande River Valley NOT the Minnesota River Valley!!)  So...... packing the boxes is the same, loading the truck is the same, location is NOT the same and the role of primary caregiver was a new one.  Thankfully Dad slowly regained some of his strength and we were blessed with 12 years together.

I can tell you, though, that like taking the dog for a walk we did NOT always work well together.  He, frequently, came into my office stomping his cane and saying, in a loud clear voice, "I am the father you are the daughter!"  We often went toe to toe - literally.  But we also had great trips, wonderful discussions and were able to be in ministry together.  So.... yes......have the reaction.  Then LAUGH because it is a LOT easier (and better)  than screaming!!