how I experienced gratitude, again

This past week I’ve been enduring sickness like no other time in my life, save when I had malaria. Thanks to my doctor’s counsel and the right medicines, I’m well on the way to restored health. I’m not accustomed to being sick, it has taken me by surprise and I’m not quick to acknowledge it. “Power through” is my usual route. But that didn’t work this time. I am now calling this another FGO - Fine Growth Opportunity to learn a lessons of gratitude: for my life, my doctor, my wife, my close friend who encouraged a way forward different than “power through it.” My power was all leaked out, literally, when I visited the doctor. 

During this same time I learned of the sudden, unexpected death of two people. Grief comes at you from so many directions. Which can be a reminder that life is a complex mix of joy and sorrow happening all the time. Oh my. It’s such a common thing to say, yet again I’ve experienced the palpable truth that each day is a gift to be savored and lived well, in the knowledge that one day may be the last one. 

May you have the opportunity to savor your life, this day, this moment and give thanks. Even while the rest of the mess remains, that may call upon you to give consolation to one who is experiencing more grief than joy. 

Before my sickness, I had the supreme delight for which I am grateful to introduce Dr. Francis Collins to our congregation for a presentation on the current circumstances, his personal story of embracing Christian faith and robust scientific research. Nearly 300 people attended. You can watch his presentation by clicking here. 

Collins explained later that evening in a 60 minutes interview why he chose to retire from NIH rather than abide the demands of the Trump administration.