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Wack-A-Mole

"When life whacks you so hard your head flies off, sew it back on and keep going."~ Mary Pierce

There have been several times in my life when I felt like life had whacked me a good one. One of the first was when newly married, my adventure-seeking hunk of a husband decided electrical engineering wasn't enough of a thrill for him, and a quick tour in the Air Force would be a lot more intriguing. Being the thoughtful planner that I am, I had intentionally not married a serviceman, a traveling salesman, a professional athlete or any other person of such vocation. I wanted stability and sameness. Instead I got the opportunity for my faith to grow.

The second was when I found out I was unexpectedly pregnant. I had married with the full intention of never having children and seven years into my marriage, I was still resolved. I was shocked, frightened and in total denial as the news sunk in. I gave myself a weekend to get used to the idea of having a life I never intended, and then I pulled myself together and got down to business--I ran straight to the bookstore to buy a baby name book and "What to Expect When You're Expecting". I only knew those books existed because I had recently watched the movie "Nine Months" and reading books about pregnancy was what an ignoramous supposedly did. I wanted control and predictability. Instead, I got a life richer and fuller than I had ever imagined.

The last was when I found out at the age of 30 that my parents were divorcing. The uncertainty and embarrassment was overwhelming. I couldn't imagine how life would change, what I would say to people, how I would explain it to my children. I had been self-sufficient and independent. Suddenly I was insecure and sad. It was during that time that my husband rose to the occasion and became a pillar of strength that I had never needed before. I wanted security and support. What I got was confirmation that I had married the right person and that without a doubt, we would be married 'till death do us part'.

Comments

tim said…
so awsome that you married such a great guy. i'm sure you have been the same for him.
i appreciate your openness about your parents. and while it is an incredible hurt to you, to those of us looking on who know them; we think of them as the wonderful people they are. while their paths have changed to a direction they feel is best for them; they love you and you love them..that hasn't changed (it has no doubt grown) and that's what those looking on, who have always admired your family, see.

sorry for the uninvited input, I don't have any authority or experience to speak to a situation so difficult, but do so appreciate all of your family.
Jana said…
It's amazing how life can go so much the opposite of what we've planned! Great take on this quote!
God has a way of pulling us back, even when we cant seem to find him. It sounds like you have a good grasp on that.
Thanks for sharing your heart on this quote, I enjoyed reading it!
Heather
Unknown said…
It's amazing to see you now and how you view the not so easy to handle things this life has brought. Very nice post and thank you for sharing from the bottom of your heart.

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