You are getting the raw truth in the words of my current blog posts. I will let you know that there is still pain in my lower back ( a lot of it), but from our best understanding, there is also a tremendous amount of healing going on there, the fusion itself, the bone graft used for the putty, rods, and screws, and the area where the surgeon removed the cyst. It’s become worse, it seems, with tapering one of my meds. The reality is that it will take a long time (at least eight months). I must carry on.
Adjusting is Critical
I had to confirm with my husband that Monday will be two weeks since my surgery. Most days, it seems like one week has passed. Some hours have been a blur. My husband carefully administers my meds, and with each pill, I ask what I’m putting into my body. I cried about that today when I should’ve been thankful. The good news is that I can function while tapering off at least one of the meds. Adjusting will be a critical element of my recovery.
So, I will slowly resume some of my “normal” activities that I can do from home next week. Very slowly. I have a few ladies I am seeing for one-on-one discipleship and one who will be new. This method of discipleship is the area of ministry where my efforts seem most effective now.
Of course, there’s problem-focused counseling, for which there is always a need. Coming up is leading Bible study and preparing for the next workshop, to which we are looking forward!
I have disciplined myself in blog writing for the past year. I had thought it could be a waste of time and that I might be mostly writing to myself. Through several women, messages, and conversations, God reminded me this week that every little thing works together – not just what we experience but also our efforts in Kingdom work.
As was typical before surgery, mornings are when I am most lucid, and my productivity is best. Then, I typically write a few words from my desk. God has plenty for me yet to do, and only He knows what is yet to come.
Help is Critical
There have been days when I stuffed pillows behind my back and sat on the edge of my desk chair. It was the best I could do and still could have been better. My sweet husband (who has cared for me well) purchased me a new office chair on my first hours out of the house. I tried it out today, and it is a much better fit for my body and has a piece for back support.
The chair I had previously bought from a furniture store was expensive, made of wood and genuine leather. This chair is a $59.00 Walmart chair, and I love it! Is there a Bible verse for that? (You can probably hear my laugh from the next room.)
Russell will replace the mat under my desk, and he must move the desk and then move the bookcases to place the mat correctly underneath it. It will be quite a job. I’ve run out of bookshelves, and we have configured a new bookcase. I’m also considering a permanent shelf above the door that would also be a bookshelf. You know how it is: one thing leads to another and then another- the domino effect.
Stillness is Critical
I often draw your attention to the details of this room – The space in our home dedicated to much work accomplished in the name of Christ. I think back through the years, and I can’t help but recall the faces of each woman whom God has allowed me to walk alongside: Stillness has been the name of the game where my memories have settled in for a while, and I’ve had time to reflect.
Then, I visited with a few friends and shared how God has graciously shown evidence of His work in and through me. You know, He doesn’t always tell us the fruit of our labor and certainly doesn’t have to. But, y’ all, it is so encouraging and often brings me to tears. But whether I see the results of the Spirit’s work through the counsel of His Word or not, I must remember it is his work; I was merely the instrument He used to deliver truth in love. His Holy Spirit produces fruitful results.
Goals are Critical
Regarding my post-op health update, as my husband and I can best tell, the left foot drop is gone, and that foot is just a little weak. After all, wouldn’t a slight weakness be typical? I am not steady, but I am trying to get plenty of steps every day, even if it is holding onto an empty Walmart shopping cart (weight concerns). On pretty days when the pavement is dry, and I have my husband’s arm to hold to, I can’t wait to walk by the lake! I would be happy to wear my Cuddle Duds and bundle up.
Encouragement is Critical
I will have my post-op follow-up with my surgeon, so I ask that you pray for me on Thursday, 2/1. I am expecting to hear nothing but good things!
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Debbie
Debbie Swindell 