The Flame Within

The past several days, I have come down with the flu, which caused a severe sinus infection, double ear infection, tonsilitus, and bronchialitus.  Prior to coming down with this illness, I was in St. Louis taking care of a traumatic family situation.  The day I returned from St. Louis, I began feeling sick, pretty sure I caught this flu from the hospital.  Needless to say, I have been under the weather. Today is the first day I have been able to sit up on the couch for more than 15 minutes.  Although, my body lay in bed, feeling sicker than I can remember in a long time.  I still took notice of the activities surrounding me!

What I noticed while lying in bed sick?

1. I noticed the way my husband took care of me.

{He made me pudding, brought me beverages, kissed my forehead, took care of the children, and the house. He regularly checked on me and asked me if I was okay, or if I needed anything.  His commitment to his family and God is astounding!}  ((Yes, I have one amazing guy!!!))

2. I noticed the concerned looks on my children’s faces and the tender way they tried to look after their mom.

{All four of them tried to take care of me in their own unique way, which truly meant the world to me.  The four sweetest little people in the world live in my home, came from my womb, and love their momma!  A mother couldn’t ask for better kids!!!}

3. I noticed the text messages and Facebook messages from friends… encouraging and praying for me.

{I have some of the world’s greatest friends, sister’s in Christ… whom always encourage, love, and pray for the needs of others. }

4. I noticed the way my little doggy, never left my side.

{He cuddled in my arms, rested his head on my leg, and genuinely showed love for his master.  He was even more behaved than normal, which was quite shocking.}

5. I noticed the way, my colleagues and professors, told me to rest, take it easy, and not to worry about anything.

6.  Most importantly, I noticed how much I truly missed being “me”!  

{I missed putting my children to bed, reading them books, singing them songs, taking care of their boo boo’s. I missed being able to handle their sibling squabbles and feeling well enough to help them pick up their rooms.  I missed being able to clean my house, do the laundry, and go to the store.  I missed being at work, counseling my clients, and being a light to the world around me!  It’s true… I missed being “me”… I missed my daily routine, the routine that often stresses and overwhelms me!  Several days of being sick has a unique way of revealing how much I truly love being “me”!

Philippians 2:4

“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”