My
mind came to a screeching halt when I heard about the black
fingernails. All I can see in my mind's eyes are the beautiful, strong
hands that set me on the path that led to Jesus. The hands that would
rub my back as a small child sitting on the arm of her recliner
when she returned from a long, hard day at work. Hands that would work the earth, planting and harvesting both crops and a legacy in me, her namesake (Cleo). And the hands that had, as long as I can remember, bore the loveliest of nails. "Lovely because of AVON" she would say. She was
religious in using their hand and cuticle cream...every day EVERY DAY. Some of my happiest memories are tagging along with her during her AVON
deliveries. Hmmm...perhaps there's something to AVON. No...it's not the AVON that makes this beloved mother, sister, aunt and grandmother (my Memaw) beautiful. It's the GLORIOUS light of Jesus in her heart, which undoubtedly belongs to HIM, that makes her a sight to behold.
The arm at the beginning of those black fingernails died yesterday. Two surgeries to "un" clog the arteries and a host of blood thinners...and the arm those black fingernails belong to dies anyway. Dr.'s have scheduled amputation early this week.
Amputation??????
What??
Beautiful fingernails...black fingernails...no fingernails???
No arm???
My dearly beloved Memaw!
(sob)
This is a horrible tragedy of the worst sort. Have been on an emotional roller coaster since she was admitted to the hospital last Tuesday, March 9th: arm regains natural color, heart beating at a dangerously fast pace, nails start to go black, heart stabilized, blood furiously clotting.... I am past the point of "distracted"..."preoccupied". Since Tuesday, I have been pulled over for speeding (not watching speedometer) and worn my pants backwards 3/4 of Saturday (finally noticed when I tried to stick my phone in my pocket), to name but a few "oops'es". I just thank God they have been minor in nature, for am not so far gone I don't recognize the very real threat of major catastrophes when one's mind is a million miles away.
The one undeniable truth and bright light in these dark days? My God is still in the business of miracles. While MUCH happens in this life I don't understand, including this looming, life-changing procedure, I cling to HIS assurances in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Oh, Millie - I do love you!
ReplyDeleteUnk
I am so very sorry to hear this news. It makes me very sad to know you all have to take this walk.
ReplyDeleteYour Memaw is such a sweet, warm woman...I will be praying for her speedy recovery and all around her to stay strong to help her through this.
I must tell you...When you do go to see her bring her favorite lotion with you massage: her feet, legs, her neck and her good hand. ((If the doctor says all this is okay...there may be something about blood flowing to fast...CHECK FIRST)) I can't tell you what a gift this will be for both of you.
Now I don't think your pants being on backwards is as funny...Gee you know how to kill a good time. :)
Love, Me
Oh my, I haven't seen you in a while and now I hear this. So sorry that your lovely grandma is suffering so. I have some luscious lotion you can slather on her legs and feet. I will send home along with Sam tomorrow. Hugs...
ReplyDelete