A few nights ago, we were called in the middle of the night. My father-in-law had a heart attack. He is in the hospital recovering, but it was scary. This was not the first time, he had some issues a few years back with a partial blockage, but it sounds like this one was definitely more severe. To the tune that he said if they hadn’t called for an ambulance, had he insisted on being driven to the hospital instead, he might not be here today. Scary stuff. A harsh, in-your-face reminder of just how unpredictable life is.
In all honesty, one of my first reactions, once we knew he was going to recover, was anger. Why wouldn’t he take better care of himself? Why would he pick up another cigarette? Why? Why? Why? The reality is, though, while I don’t smoke and try to take care of myself (though I could do SO much better) I could be hit by a bus tomorrow. Now, I’m not saying that it doesn’t matter what we do. I believe since we are created in God’s image as part of his beautiful creation, that we are to take care of our bodies and minds. I do realize, though, that there are circumstances sometimes which hinder our ability to do that. I also realize that my anger in this situation is born out of a sincere heart. You see, I have three kids that adore this man and I want him to be around to see them grow up. I lost my grandpa when I was quite young (my other grandpa died before I was born) and though I do remember a few things about him, I don’t have many specific memories of him and I so wish I did. He was a great man. I want my kids to have these very important people in their lives for a long, long time! I am so grateful that Grandpa is recovering.
I hope this event marks a point of change for him and those around him, myself included. What a wake-up call that we cannot take our health for granted; physical, emotional and spiritual. We truly don’t know what tomorrow will bring.
