Posted by I was reading a Facebook memory from six years ago today, and it really spoke to me. My dear husband had a heart attack on Sunday. I still can’t believe it happened. It seems so strange to type it now.
Thankfully it was a “minor” one. He needed three stents, but the heart damage was minimal and should repair itself. We are home now and I’m so grateful..
It was scary and hard, but I did feel the prayers of friends and family and the grace and presence of God. He is good, even when life is hard!
As He was in 2013…
I keep thinking about my mom’s dentist appointment the other week. As we were seated waiting for her name to be called, Dad had his arm around Mom and she had her head on his chest.
She said, “I hurt. You have to help me.” (Mom has frequent stomach aches. We’ve had all kinds of tests done and concluded it comes from irritable bowel. She is on different meds, but nothing seems to really help.
Dad squeezed her shoulder and said, “I am helping. I’m here.”
She clings to him more, I think she is anxious being in this building she doesn’t remember, and repeats, “You have to help me.”
“I am,” Dad patiently repeats in a calming voice. “I am here with you.”
When her name is called Dad gets up with her and puts his hand on her shoulder (to guide him because his vision is so poor) and shuffles along behind. As they work on her teeth the dentist pulls a chair up close to Mom so Dad can hold her hand through it all.
Sometimes I hurt and I cry out to God, “You have to help me.” God is powerful and sovereign and He can take away my pain if He chooses to. Sometimes He does. And sometimes, for reasons I don’t understand, He doesn’t take away the pain.
But He says in a still, calm voice, “I am here with you.” And I hold fast to His hand, and know the grace that His presence brings, and it is enough.
God's Grace and Life's Challenges 
your blog has always been a great encouragement to me as I am walking through my Mom dealing with Alzheimer’s. I support my dad through being a listening ear and doing what I am able. I often keep your blogs to refer to later. I needed to be reminded that the Lord is with me as I support my parents. The last visit was not real easy. My Mom was really struggling. I know I need the Lord daily.
I’m sorry, Gayle. I know it’s so hard. God gives grace one day at a time. God bless you as you help your dad. You won’t regret the help you give, even though it’s hard to do. You’ll be grateful for everything you did to bless your folks. 💕
Sorry to hear about your husband yet grateful that God has answered your prayers and he is better. Thank you for this post. I am so thankful that one of my clients happened to share one of your posts. My husbands aunt (92 years old) lives with us and has severe dementia. I take care of her while I run my business from my home. But since my client shared this, my sister-in-law is now taking care of her mother; my daughter is taking care of her mother in law and a couple of people in God’s church where my husband is pastor, are going through this same journey. I have been able to share your words of truth and wisdom along with your experiences with them. Thank you very much.
You are connected to so many ministries, Theresa! I’m so honored that you have shared my words with others. I love hearing that they have helped someone else! God bless you in all that you do! ~Cheryl
So sorry to hear about your husband. Sending prayers that he gets stronger everyday. You are so right no matter what we are going through GOD is always there for us . We have to TRUST in him . GOD BLESS you and your family. Thank you again for all your beautiful, inspiring blogs! They help alot!!
Thank you for your prayers, Jan! Prayers and God’s presence and grace sustain us for sure! I’m so grateful to hear my blogs have been a help to you! that blesses me!
I love your Dad’s simple and heartfelt answer to your mom’s “Help me.” My dear momma says this many times a day. I shall try, “I am helping. I am here.”
The photo of the two of them is precious and heartwarming.
Thank you so much! I didn’t take enough pictures of them together, but I love how this captured a glimpse of their sweet love.