My sister was admitted to the hospital today for her stem cell transplant. Her husband and our mother are with her ... several states away. And I feel like I should be there, too. If not for my sister, at least for my mom. She's so tired. But she wouldn't be anywhere else.
But God sent us all a message today. My sister sent this picture of the room she will be staying in. Instead of your typical, bland hospital room, she and my mom walked into a room with butterflies, birds, and flowers painted all over the walls. (And it has a view to boot! See that sunshine?!?!) It's one of the only decorated rooms, according to the staff. It was donated by the Association for Support of Children with Cancer. And since the children are now located in another area of the hospital, adults are now being blessed by this donation.
Informational Tidbit #1: My sister adores butterflies. She has for years. And they've become her cancer symbol ... her symbol of hope. And even though her poor groom would prefer to never see another one in their home, she is even incorporating them into their ceremony this spring for their renewal of vows.
Informational Tidbit #2: My mother adores flowers and plants. Her gardens are beautiful. Her house is full of them. She has the greenest thumb I know, after my grandmother.
So ... my mother and I are taking this room as a sign. A sign from God. Reminding us that He's right there. Reminding me that even though I'm not there to take care of both of them, He is. And He's got it all under control.
Erika, this is so beautiful. It moves me to tears of thanksgiving for a faithful God, who works in the big things (like stem cell transplants) and the small things (like butterflies) to show us that he loves us and is with us and in us. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11. Praying for your sister, her family and for you as you love them.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lindy. I have that same verse on a tag that hangs at my desk. I try to remind myself of its meaning every day. And thank you for praying for my sister. Her name is Amanda. She's only 25 and has been through so much in the past 3 years. But her transplant is finally here ... tomorrow! And we're hoping this is the end of her treatments. Thank you again for your kind words.
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