Sometimes the unexpected comes along. So yes, I had ‘fun’ on a train
today, though truth be told I could have done without it. No big problem, just
hassle. And anyway I’ve been having a really enjoyable time whilst on holiday
in Deal, a little busy but that’s ok. I can rest at home; I’m here to meet with
the Lord and engage with whatever he sets before me. I met my friends over the
weekend, a big party to say goodbye as they’re leaving to go retire in France. Thoroughly
enjoyed myself, so I’ll probably meet up with some other folk later this week. And
it looks like Jane’s mum has had a successful partial hip replacement so I feel
comfortable staying away now. At 98 it’s a big deal, but she’s so confused that
when my daughter visited she couldn’t remember having the operation and talked
as if she still needed one.
Today I felt tired and chose not to drive anywhere; instead I took the
train for the very short journey into Dover and a nice relaxing walk around the
town and seafront. No problem until the return journey, and when the train stopped
at my station in Martin Mill neither of my carriage doors would open! I
scurried along, rushing towards the next coach just as the train departed
carrying one rather unwilling passenger. No way off for Dave today. Sitting
waiting at the next station for an hour until the return train arrived was not
my idea of fun. But I persuaded my phone to generate a wi-fi hot spot and my
Nexus Tablet quickly downloaded my latest half read e-book, so time passed
quite enjoyably. I find new technologies to be fascinating. Solving the problem
of an extended train journey was easy, although a little stressful when I’m not
a well person. Why can’t staff offer up even a little apology? He even
suggested that only drunkards failed to operate the doors! Two big buttons, close/open
so not exactly complicated. Grrr! Then I was concerned about the return journey
without a valid ticket… I sort of hid from the attendant whilst keeping her in
sight in case more doors failed. No way am I buying another one, even though
only a couple of pounds. Would have been easier to drive.
My journey of grief as I persevere in bereavement could do with such a
straightforward resolution. I sure don't want to miss the stop on that one. It’s
been over 15 months since I lost Jane and that’s been the longest and most
challenging period of my life. At least I can see a way forward and feel
massively different from last year. Yes, I still get upset and some days are
more difficult than others; but fundamentally I feel much better. More in
control emotionally, comfortable with who I am and where I’m at. I’ll be
wearing L plates as a single for some time yet, but that’s ok I’m in no rush to
make big decisions. God will guide my steps. The same with my much longer
journey with illness… I have total confidence in the Lord’s ability to either
heal or pour out his grace for as long as is needed. It helps if I can avoid
stress though! Stop those trains I really
want to get off, please Lord.
2 Corinthians 6:2 ‘For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you.
On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed the “right time” is now. Today is
the day of salvation.’ (NLT)
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