Cold Case In Ellyson

I admit it. We’ve had a rough fourth quarter. Broken bones, a blood clot, bank seizure, disagreeable loan refinance terms, witnessing a decline in my dad’s health, all of which happened within the span of two months. I’ve been troubled with sleepless nights and nightmares, that is, until my sister reminded me of something: that this world is a battleground; it’s not heaven. Grief touches us all. I had forgotten that in my happy, dumb existence. And when I look at other days of this long year, so many good things have happened. Quick healing of my children’s bones, book awards, speeches, book signings, time with friends, making enough to pay the bills and then some, a loving and generous family, the opportunity to play tennis. I guess what gets you is when it involves your kids. It’s hard to take their pain and suffering. You want to take it away, but you can’t.

So this Thanksgiving, I will thank God for the blessings he’s given us, and there have been many. I will also ask him to bless us further by keeping us and everyone safe and healthy, but if lightning strikes you in the metaphorical sense, remember that none of us was promised a rose garden.