Sorrow and Sighing Flee

The giraffe is back on!

The Parks and Rec department emailed again and told me they would purchase all supplies, send me helpers, set up ladders, and be sure the methane pipes I transform into giraffes are in safe locations if only I would please, pretty please agree to create this meaningful and moving public art. So, I talked with Asherel and her friend and asked if they would consider helping me. They were very keen on the idea, especially when I discussed the dangers of methane gas and welding. Of course, I haven't gotten the parents' permission yet, but I need to get through the next major events- Destination Imagination State Finals, and then the trip to Chicago to see my son compete in the Appellate Advocacy Nationals. After that, I will see if I can convince the parents of my teen helpers to let their children climb a tall ladder to help paint a pipe that spews methane.

I did ask the Parks and Rec manager if I was in any danger from the methane. Here is his comforting reply:
"I wouldn't stick my face in front of the pipe, but otherwise, you SHOULD be ok."

SHOULD?

Normally, I don't embrace danger, but how many people on earth have the opportunity to transform a sewer pipe into one of God's creatures? How could I NOT do it?

I went to visit Mom K at the nursing home, and when I arrived, she was upset with whatever imaginary character I had become in her not always lucid mind.
"I am not happy with you," she said.
Before she had a chance to get rolling on her wild imaginings, I wheeled her out to the sunshine garden and said, "I have the BEST news."
"What?" she asked suspiciously.
"Matt...your grandson...just WON a major law contest. First place! He goes to Nationals!"

She raised her hands in the air and looked up to heaven, her eyes filling with tears, "Thank you Jesus!" she said, "I never thought my grandchildren would be so accomplished. Thank you Jesus that I lived to see this day."
We had a lovely visit after that. She knitted while I played with a ladybug that had landed on my arm. The tree we sat beneath was almost ready to burst forth in flower. The little pink buds dotted every twig. What beauty, what potential quivered on the moment.

When it was time to leave, she knew I was her daughter-in-law, and reminded me to tell my parents she said ,"Hello." What a blessed day, I thought. Whimsy, sunshine, and bringing joy to someone who felt gladness for what another day of life had brought.

"Tomorrow," I said, as we headed back into the Home, "I bet this tree will be covered in flowers."

Isaiah 35:2-6,10 (NIV)
it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God. [3] Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; [4] say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” [5] Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. [6] Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. [10] and those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.



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