Today my mom is having total knee replacement surgery. I made it up to the hospital with a laptop, books, flowers, and ready to sit and talk to her for hours before her procedure. When I reached the floor where mom is staying I stopped by the nurses' station to make sure I had the right room number. As it turned out, they had just taken my mom downstairs and she wouldn't be back to her room until after the surgery! I was so upset that I had missed her and I asked if there was any way I could just quickly hug her neck down in the holding area. The very kind Unit Secretary made a few phone calls and worked it out that I could visit with mom for a few minutes.
Like walking through scattered army men on the floor of my son's room, I visually discounted the IV equipment on her bed, effortlessly stepping around the needles, tourniquet, tubing, and alcohol swabs. I, personally, have a disturbing fondness for successfully achieving venous access for patient's in the hospital. Nothing bothered me about blue sugical gown and hat she was wearing; over the years I've seen countless patients and physicians donning the same. What did strike me about my mother was that she was smiling: A big beautiful smile. And when she saw me she said, "There's my baby girl! Isn't she obnoxiously skinny?" (Note: I am not obnoxiously skinny, but Mom always knows what to say to make someone walk a little taller).
I got my hug in. I told her that I love her. I asked my mom what she needed.
"Just a prayer", she said.
Not magazines, not lip balm, not pain medication, not a spotless house post discharge.
Just a prayer.
I am grateful to my mom for always teaching me what is most important. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much". (James 5:16)
I want to be just like her.
Your mom is incredible! I wish I could come make a treat and dinner! :) However, all of us out here in Utah will make sure we send lots of love and prayers her way.
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