Sustaining Courage in the Face of Chronic Illness: Daddy, are you Going to be Okay? by Dr. Okey Nwangburuka

Author:Dr. Okey Nwangburuka
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-64559-065-1
Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
Published: 2019-11-14T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Six

Daddy, Are You Gonna Be Okay?

Time had lapsed slowly. They were growing and changing every day, it seemed. They had memories of us playing together at the park near the house. Dancing and singing in the family room. Going to church. Big sister Nenye remembered more. She was four, and her awesome threesome siblings were two. But they are older now, more caring, understanding, and empathetic.

They hug, lay their heads on my body, or sometimes sit aloofly, and I wonder what they are wondering about. They never forget to say “Dad, we are praying for you.” They look forward to their visits; still reassuringly state they love Dad and miss Dad. Less frequently did they not ask when Dad is coming home.

How life can change! Insidiously. Acutely, sometimes. My heart gets heavy and tears well up in me. I then get thankful for the courage in their little, rather young hearts.

And I look up and thank him for the provisions he has made for them to keep waxing strong and having favor with both God and man.

Often referred to as our miracle kids, I know we want them to serve Jehovah and be worthy vessels in his hands.

Which makes me wonder about me. I was born out of prayers, intercession, and visions and dreams. I wonder if Papa and Mama made any special vows on my behalf. I know Mama was always encouraging me in the Lord, and Papa said I could become a bishop if I chose, but only after completing medical school!

How my heart prays for the fab four to be well-trained in his principles, but to embrace his person as the center and all in all for their lives!

To marry the loves of their youth!

To be focused on the pursuit of the essential but not ignore people outside their inner circle.

To be bold and make their boast in the Lord but never forget that truth should all be spoken in love, and love can only be true if expressed in truth.

That he has promised to give those whose hearts are set upon him, but to do quickly that which is in your heart from above.

To remain strong and be of good courage.

I wish I could teach and impart the fullness of his Word into you.

Back to your question.

Will I be okay?

Yes, I will, by his grace through faith in his written and revealed Word. Yes. I will rise again and testify. Yes, many have given up—some friends, family—but Jesus never quits on us. The Holy Spirit, our parakletos, visits me every day, every hour, and dwells in me every second.

So, yes, I lie on a bed of languishing, but I have hope.

And you know what? Your courage, prayers, visits, hugs, smiles, and love make all the difference. I love you. I appreciate you.

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