Michael's dreams of being a broad-shouldered, muscle-bound, hulking specimen of manliness died long ago. He's been wearing "slim" jeans, most even with those hidden elastic, cinching bands, since his toddler days. I can vividly remember the seasons that he insisted on tucking in his sweaters and sweatshirts just to help keep his pants up. He's accepted that he's built more for basketball than football (Sorry, Uncle Troy!).
The past days have made him far more aware of his physical limitations. The effects of his cancer and its treatment are becoming quite obvious. Michael struggles to stay awake for more than a few hours. His muscles have become so weak that even walking causes the uncomfortable soreness that most of us associate with those dreaded workouts. His energetic periods are predictably short.
His response has been interesting. Though he certainly has his moments of disappointment, he has PUSHED himself. He has gotten on the treadmill several times, even if only to walk for a half a mile. He has chosen school and church over sleeping or relaxing several times. He even spent a few minutes last night outside sighting in his shotgun for youth hunting season this weekend. I don't think he'll remember the times that he ended up thrown to the ground from the gun's recoil if he "bags his deer"!
He observed recently when thinking about keeping up with his classmates: "Mom, I was never the tough kid in class, but now I'm going to have to work hard just to be the wimpiest kid in class!" I was immediately reminded of God's promises in Isaiah 40:29-31. How thankful I am to know that "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength . . . they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength . . ."
The past days have made him far more aware of his physical limitations. The effects of his cancer and its treatment are becoming quite obvious. Michael struggles to stay awake for more than a few hours. His muscles have become so weak that even walking causes the uncomfortable soreness that most of us associate with those dreaded workouts. His energetic periods are predictably short.
His response has been interesting. Though he certainly has his moments of disappointment, he has PUSHED himself. He has gotten on the treadmill several times, even if only to walk for a half a mile. He has chosen school and church over sleeping or relaxing several times. He even spent a few minutes last night outside sighting in his shotgun for youth hunting season this weekend. I don't think he'll remember the times that he ended up thrown to the ground from the gun's recoil if he "bags his deer"!
He observed recently when thinking about keeping up with his classmates: "Mom, I was never the tough kid in class, but now I'm going to have to work hard just to be the wimpiest kid in class!" I was immediately reminded of God's promises in Isaiah 40:29-31. How thankful I am to know that "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength . . . they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength . . ."
Jennifer,, thank you so much for the encouraging words if Michael's story. Amazing how God uses the young and weak to plant seeds for those who will listen with their heart.
ReplyDeleteContinually in thoughts and prayers for Michael and all of your family
God's Blessings
Sandy Lamparter