Smoke Signals and other news
As I traveled near Holly Springs on my way to the Veteran’s Home in Oxford, I remembered that I had not eaten and would not have another chance for several hours. I have my favorite picks at most of the fast-food places, which is all I had time for. I won’t say which one I stopped at as I need the identity of this young lady to remain private. The young lady took my order, and I pulled to the first window, where it was apparent she was upset, with tears streaming, yet she continued to do her job professionally.
As is my nature, I asked if she was okay. She said, “Yes, I’m okay.” My heart hurt for her. I asked if it was okay to say a prayer for her and asked her name, and I was making a mental note to do just that. This precious young lady told the next customer in line she would be right with them, pulled off her headset, and reached for my hand. Apparently, she took me at my word and desired prayer right at that moment. I took her hand, closed my eyes, and lifted her in prayer in the drivethrough line. With a squeeze of her hand, I pulled forward. She replaced her headset and continued taking orders. No customer’s orders were delayed. I can honestly say this was a first. You never know what another person is going through as we travel life’s pathway.
Be kind wherever you go, and if you offer to pray for someone, be prepared to do so on the spot.
My granddaughter, Mary Claire, is heavily involved in theater and several other activities. For her upcoming play, “Around the World in 80 Days,” she is in charge of getting items for the set. She came and checked out what items Grandma might have. She was delighted to find two short church pews on my front porch that would work great as benches for the train station scene. Then she saw my mother’s old oak round table, along with an ancient chair and some perfect books. A few days later, she announced she needed a lot of newspapers to make a paper mâché’s life-size elephant head for another scene. We were all looking for papers. Then I remembered I write for a newspaper. Thanks to The South Reporter for filling the backseat of my car with leftover newspapers. Mary Claire is always amazed at her grandmother’s resources.
I am going to omit your history lesson this week.
Most of you know my husband, Doug, has had health problems for several years and has had a difficult summer with hospital stays, seven weeks in a rehab center, more hospital stays and then going to the Veteran’s Home in Oxford for the last seven weeks. He was able to be somewhat mobile, attended many of the activities they offered, made new friends, participated in physical therapy, looked forward to receiving his new mobile scooter and adjusted to life there. He had not felt well the last couple of weeks, had a decreased appetite and slept more than usual. I went to see him last Thursday. We went to bingo, sat outside in the sunshine, visited a bit, and he slept a lot.
Last Friday, I talked to him around 3:30 p.m. He said he would call me later when he felt better. That call never came. Instead, the call I got asked if I had family with me. I replied, “Well, no, but why would you ask me that?” Doug had passed away quickly and peacefully.
My heart is shattered. Thank you to all who have reached out with calls and messages, and especially for your prayers. Tell your loved ones you love them and never take for granted you will get another chance.
Please share your news with me at jchwagg@gmail.com or text or call 901-246-8843.