Family

A reason for thanksgiving


March 31, 2009 (Tuesday)
picture of CharlesMy son, David, had surgery today in a Houston hospital. His wife Janet, daughter Melinda, sister Dianna, and I spent the day in the waiting room. He checked into the surgical suite at 8:30 a.m. and finally made it to a hospital room after surgery at 6:30 p.m. His actual surgery lasted 5 hours. The surgeon said it was successful and he should be through the recovery period in a matter of weeks.
As we stood at the foot of his bed in the hospital room, I saw a 54-year-old professional engineer, loving husband and father of three, and could not help but think of the first time I was with him in a hospital. I recall it well. It was when he was born. A nurse wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in my arms. I held him, looking down at a brand new human being, and feeling awe as I contemplated the miracle of birth and new life.
In a few brief seconds, my mind raced back over the last 54 years, revealing scenes of our family and bringing to mind the many reasons I have to be thankful for each and every family member. How good God has been to me. I am indeed thankful.