The New Normal

I am constantly surprised that normal changes.

Every little while I get sort of settled and think, OK, this is it. This is the new normal. I'll get in the grove, adjust, enjoy it a little and go with it.

Well, it seems my new normal is upon me yet again.

God is calling me to be more flexible than I like, more fluid than I've been before.

All because of a beautiful blonde boy.

I think I'm just beginning to see the picture of what the next years will look like as a satilite to my nephew's family. I am starting to see the uncertain whirlwind that is cancer in a child.

Just when you think he's doing well, there's a turn. There's a glitch and no one can find the cog that isn't meshing. There is worry and stress and prayer. All plans are tossed to the winds.

The new plan becomes to love my family harder. The plan becomes to be the home away from home for my nieces and nephews, my sister-in-law and her husband. We're the respite from the hospital hallways. We're the open arms, frequent prayers and full fridge. We're clean laundry, a blanket and a pillow.

This is a blessed spot to be in, in spite of itself.

So for Andrew, I'll grow willingly. I'll learn to be less selfish about my space, my time, my plans. I'll learn even more how to let go and belong to God.