Her quiet way and seasoned mannerisms eased my impatience
I watched as she wrote each order in shorthand on paper tickets Waited as she entered prices one key at a time on an old-fashioned cash register
She was part of a well-oiled machine concerned with service and product, not speed
Have you been here before? Yes, this is my second visit We love returning customers Right, Alex? Glancing behind me Looking back at me, she smiled You have a beautifulsmile
An unexpected compliment while ordering lunch I smiled back, Thank you
As her petals began to open Delicate and damp from The Spring morning dew Her sweet message was released Carried away on a gentle breeze- And she waited Soaking in warmth from the Sun Her soft, pink skin stretching Toward the light- And she waited a bit longer Marvelling at the towering tree above And the green grass below- Finally, her message was answered- First, her friend Butterfly Stopped in for a sip of tea- Buzzing Bee was next to visit Grateful for shared resources – The first of many sacred exchanges Each one required great patience And long listening- All worth the wait
Sharing a poem from a recent poetry circle. A big thank you to Ali Grimshaw. 🩷
Searching For a smile Through fog And darkness Although Not yet visible Trusting It is there Waiting for Just the right Moment To appear Glance to one side And then the other Still no smile Stepping out Of the car Deep sigh One more glance… There it is! A single strand Of pink light Between The bluish grays- I breathe deep Smile back
Wednesday did not go as planned. Yes, I had a moment of clarity which encouraged me to be patient and focus on others. My mood improved and I felt prepared to face the rest of the day. At least, I thought I was prepared.
After being in pre-op for more than two hours, my dad was informed his surgery was canceled. Apparently, previous surgeries had taken longer than expected. A new anesthesiology policy would not permit the procedure to begin unless there was a guarantee of being finished by 5:00 P.M. What?!
Although the doctors were sincerely apologetic, I was extremely frustrated. You can imagine how my dad was feeling. I could not simply walk away without advocating him.
I not so quietly reminded them that Dad is 75, diabetic, and had been on a liquid diet for five days in preparation for this surgery. This was not acceptable. The doctors agreed and offered other possibilities, none of which were “best scenario” options.
Returning to the waiting room, I informed the rest of the family. By this time, I was angry. I shot off several texts to friends and family, expressing my frustration. Let’s just say, that patient attitude I had reclaimed earlier-well, it was gone.
Some dinner and quiet provided time to think about the situation. Maybe dad is not supposed to have this procedure right now. Are there other options to pursue? I don’t know. I do know we will do some more waiting. And for now, that is ok.
Waiting provides time for praying, researching, and asking questions. Which hopefully means the waiting will lead to wisdom. Which brings us back to patience.
My sweet dad with his youngest granddaughters. ❤
On a positive note, we were able to enjoy the Fourth of July. A small family cookout and some fireworks at a local park. For that I am thankful.