When the unexpected happens . . . what do we do?
We hear statements like these everyday:
- Why did this happen?
- It wasn’t supposed to be this way.
- I’m a good person, I don’t deserve to this pain.
But . . . suffering is rewarded in our society. There’s a payoff that accompanies grief.
Often these behaviors become part of our identity and follow us into adulthood.
The old wringer washing machine stood against the wall; light streamed in from a nearby window, creating a magical scene. I watched as Mom put shirts, pants, and socks in the sudsy water. . .
When the clothes were clean, Mom rung them through the wringer. Squeezing the water from the fabric she readied each piece to be hung on the clothesline. I was intrigued by the rollers, how as they methodically spun round and round. Mom excused herself momentarily.
“I’m going to get more laundry; I’ll be right back.”
Proudly I stood, perched on my stool. With a smile in my eyes, I tentatively touched the spinning rollers. I liked how the wet rubber squeaked under my fingers as it spun, squished, and turned. Suddenly, without warning the wringer caught my fingers, and I couldn’t pull them out. Tugging with everything I had, I panicked. . .
An excerpt from my upcoming book ~ Living as Love
Following this accident, I temporarily lost the use of my arm. My father massaged my arm each day and mom made sure my every need was met. I don’t remember any pain from the incident; I just remember the loving attention from my mom and dad.
Accidents happen, it’s a fact.
When a sudden loss takes place, how will we respond?
