Itching, Scratching, Coughing and Sneezing

         I am beginning to understand and appreciate Fr. Harold’s comment about “Sometimes life can be a slow martyrdom”.  This past month has been one incapacitating issue after another: hay fever, flu, a cold and now…shingles.  I realize none of these are fatal and that they don’t require habit forming pain medication.  But they are a “thorn in the side” and a vivid reminder that there is something else in this life besides being well and feeling good.  The worst part is trying to maintain a positive outlook.

        It looks like I have a choice.  I can carp, complain and moan or I can just offer it up.

        Offering up my miniscule amount of discomfort appears to have merit.  It allows me to understand, in some very small way, the suffering of the Cross.  It gives me a tiny insight into what Jesus went through for me…some understanding of the love He has for me.

        Paul’s thorn in the flesh was not removed, but he soldiered on...he suffered through it.

So, I’m good with the itching, scratching, coughing and sneezing…‘cause I know God will be enough to sustain me.

        Thank you, Lord Jesus, for this down time to refocus on you.

Amen.