March 25, 2008
This week is when the body is prepared for the “procedure” which is to occur next Monday afternoon. In a long discourse with a nurse this AM we went through my medical history again – after such a discussion including medicines taken, medicines now being used, past surgeries and present ailments, one wonders how such a repaired and chemically altered mechanism can actually go forward. If I were an automobile or a plant, I think I would be an odd looking pastiche of the beginning product by now, but when I look in the mirror, there I am, still recognizable as someone I knew quite some time ago.
Our Easter worship event presented the splendid hymns and moments of grandeur that musicians and preachers hope for as they practice and prepare for this day of days in the church year. The anthem preceding the sermon, “Praise Ye the Lord” by John Rutter, was wonderful, and when the pastor came into the pulpit, he remarked upon it, then said to us, the congregation, something like, “Let’s just say it again together, “Praise the Lord!” We did so, and I was stunned to hear my brain continue on with “and pass the ammunition!” There were exclamation points all over inside my head as the World War II song phrase appeared, unbidden. It was immediately followed by the appalling thought that perhaps my future might bring the time when the guard before my mouth might not be able to contain such mental commentaries. Fortunately, the service and celebration continued in fine and predictable ways with an Easter feast with the family and a walk in the woods at sundown to conclude a very good day.
(As these last postings are made, there may continue to be a time lapse between text and illustrations because John-paul, the illustrator, is presently taking photos and having fine adventures while traveling in Europe.)