Today, our beloved occupational therapist endeavored to give my dad a chance to be in the shower chair. Not only were his feet washed, but also his entire body (I don’t think anyone realized it was Holy Thursday in the Western church, a day when Jesus washed the disciples feet). I attend an Eastern church, so we have another week left before Holy Thursday, but according to the calendar of the West, this washing was right on time. We also massaged my dad’s feet and put him in all clean clothes, and even though he said his heart was pained by the fact that this was what washing is now, he nonetheless fell right to sleep after the experience.
That was definitely the highlight of the day. In addition, Papa continues to grow in strength on the left side. With significant support on the left side from an excellent physical therapist, he stood tall today. I’m telling you there’s nothing like being eye level again with your dad. He was looking around and taking it all in. It warmed my heart. He is trying so hard.
When his great friend Dave came to visit, my dad was snoozing, but we were so happy to share how hard my dad’s been working and the progress he has made and is making on a daily basis (although he still has a long way to go!!!!!). “Step by step” and “One day at a time.”
I also had a chance to celebrate Clara over dumpings today. She is a once-in-a-lifetime teacher. I loved hearing about our school, but also realized that I have fully accepted that my goal is being fully present wherever I am, whether it is with my dad or the kids or wherever, it is the PRESENT and I am enjoying every minute, or at least trying to, let’s be real!
Also, I must mention that Kiki visited us, and she is a master class on being fully in the moment and loving people well (also, in being a GIFT to all she meets)!!! She is also a wonderful listener, which in itself is healing. It’s great to be able to share challenges, perspectives, and victories with someone who cares. She shared her wisdom with kindness and compassion. And the delicious soup she made gave us strength to keep going! Thank you, Kiki!!
Today in the Western Church, we remember how Jesus taught us to love one another, and even though we may be sucking at it at times, overall the line has a positive slope, and we are trying our best, apologizing on a daily basis, and trying again, by God’s infinite grace!!!!!