Sick Day, Tribute to Joan Gilbert

Yesterday (Tuesday) I had to take a sick day. I've been burning the candle at both ends recently. Apparently too much, as my body went on strike yesterday. It basically just wanted to lay down and moan. I was even too tired to eat, which is a real sign of something being wrong. So I had to miss the weekly church staff meeting and my planned run to pick up a Firewire cable.

My wife talks about the importance of listening to your body. I'm more stoic in this way and often can push through fatigue with will power. Such was not the case yesterday.

Today I'm feeling much better than yesterday, but not yet 100%. I usually can walk at full speed, but not to today's Fonderie leaders meeting.

It's actually helpful to be feeling lethargic, as it gives me more empathy for those who do. The human body is such a delicate machine that any number of things that could go wrong can bring it to a crashing halt. It's a good reminder to thank God for health and strength, as these aren't necessarily a given.

I woke up nearly every hour last night/this morning and felt the urge to check my e-mail. That's not a healthy thing and shows a certain drivenness.

I learned yesterday that my longtime friend Joan Gilbert died this past Monday. Joan is one the adoptive grandmothers that God put in my life. She was responsible for having a weekly Bible club in the elementary that I attended. I learned a lot of my theology and biblical history in grade school through Bible club. She was a faithful financial and prayer supporter of ours for many years. She was a woman full of wisdom and full of the Spirit. I briefly got to see her in November in Michigan, but didn't make the last visit to her house that I was thinking of doing the day of my Paris return.

Farewell for now, Joan. Your days of fatigue, pain, and walking with a cane are now over. Sorry that you didn't get to meet our youngest daughter. I hope that she follows in your spirit. I look forward to seeing you on the other side.