laryngitis

In the space of silence, there are no words. When one loses her voice - physically but not literally - she searches to find words that speak for her. This past week has been a test of patience, longing and voicelessness. I am learning to listen, trust and believe that my vocal chords will once again vibrate with clarity as I speak, laugh and share conversation with others.

I also know that this past month has been a month of losses. My girlfriend’s granddaughter - too young at 16 to say goodbye; an elderly man from my church with cancer; a friend’s husband succumbed to his illnesses; a friend’s sister gone and the tragic loss of a young Grade 12 student ready to graduate. And there are others grieving their losses.

Many years ago, June was a month of losses for me. My brother died close to his birthday and today he would have been 65. It was my parent’s anniversary - it would have been 67 years together. And yet, despite the losses, there have been many gains.

I have been blessed with a daughter in law, a grandson and soon a granddaughter this summer. I live in a country rich with resources, peace and beauty. I share my home, laugh with friends, drive to various destinations on paved roads and attend a church with believers who pray for me. The blessings abound and I am thankful beyond all measure.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:6-8