I took a vacation from being a nurse. And became a patient along the way.
I’m on my break from my job as the nurse at school. And I’m on crutches, which has made my vacation a very interesting one, and not the one I had planned.
Not sure what I’ve done to my knee, and the doctor doesn’t seem to know either. But it has necessitated a very abbreviated version of the activities I had all laid out for my time off. I’ve written quite a few blogs (and a book) in the past about waiting and patience, but I didn’t think I’d be applying it to a mystery knee condition. The best guess diagnosis is one that says that it will improve with “avoiding the activities which cause discomfort”.
That’s walking in my case.
So I’ve been hobbling around, having to put my pride on the back burner, asking others to get me things or slow down or open doors or not pay attention to my winces and sighs.
It’s been an interesting and eye-opening experience to be the one who needs the care, instead of being the one who usually gives it. And it’s been yet another lesson in realizing things are not going to get better on my time schedule. This is a situation which apparently needs…time.
And I can’t fight that. I need to do what I’m told, and not try to rush ahead. Part of me wants to tell God I’ve spent my life learning that lesson, but apparently there are lessons which require what we call in professional circles, “continuing education”.
It’s OK. It could be worse. And there is a small part of me that’s actually grateful for the experience of being on the other side of the medical fence. Sometimes it’s beneficial to learn life lessons in a new, unexpected and sometimes entertaining way.
Maybe there’s a reason why we need to be called “patients”. Patience?
Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; Colossians 1:11
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
But those who wait on the LORD
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Anticipatience 
Yes, it’s VERY difficult for someone who is a ‘doer’ to have to ask for help. Something God is still teaching me: “He MAKETH me lie down in green pastures.” I think otherwise, I would never have slowed down. Love you, dear.