Father’s Day 2014

    

I’m sure that if someone asked Al what he would like to do for Father’s Day, his reply would be to be able to walk again without pain. It has been a long stretch for him, with two surgeries on his ankle since December. The latest surgery was to realign his heel bone under the new ankle joint, requiring that no weight be put on his right foot for six weeks.

    “I’m not counting the days or anything,” he says with a grin, and then proceeds to tell exactly how many days are left until the cast comes off. He probably knows the hours and minutes too.

     We are both looking forward to the next appointment when x-rays will be taken. Then the doctor will be able to determine if a walking boot can replace the heavy, hot plaster cast. With the increasing heat of the summer, Al’s leg has started to itch. He’s being very good about leaving it alone, although the temptation to stick a coat-hanger down the cast for a good scratch has been great! If you have ever worn a cast for any length of time, you can relate! Very uncomfortable!

     “You know,” I commented one day while we were eating lunch, “we are both learning the same lesson on humility. You are learning humility while being served; and I am learning humility while serving.”

     Al would probably have preferred to trade places at that point. It’s hard getting around on only one foot, even with the help of a knee-walker and a wife! The days seem long with few excursions out of the house. How he misses those hours spent doing yard work, turning the compost pile and taking care of the multitude of chores which come along with having almost two acres of land. He still manages to bring me a cup of tea every morning, however, and lends a helping hand whenever he can.

      Neighbors have offered to help with mowing and other outdoor jobs, which we have gratefully received. My brother, Jack, drove up from Oxnard with his wife and a dear family friend one Saturday. “Make a ‘honey-do’ list for me,” he said. “I want to help!” And he did! They even brought meat for the BBQ, which Jack cooked. Al and I had a great time visiting with the three of them.

      Our appreciation goes out to all of the wonderful folks who have offered their help, those who have called to chat and also those who have sent cards. Many thanks, as well, to our friends and family who have been faithful to pray for both of us during this time of healing.

      To you men who are fathers, who are faithful to support and serve your families selflessly, and then who take the time to help those around you who are in need, thank you, thank you, thank you! Have a happy Father’s Day!

“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20: 25b-28 NIV   

(published in the Porterville Recorder 6/14/14)