“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven...”[1]
Life has a way of disrupting rhythm. The last several weeks have been a reality check for me.
My wife and I have been moving my mother-in-law into a new home. Betty (my mother-in-law) has been graced with amazing health. In her 90’s she’s still active and balks at the thought of having to take an Ibuprofen to relax a muscle!
“For everything there is a season.” Even the resilient, vibrant, and healthy age! Things we take for granted suddenly become more noticeable: walking, balance, sight, and hearing. We’re thankful Betty has been independent for all these years.
“For everything there is a season.” Moving from your home to a new home in your 90’s disrupts your rhythm. The familiar is disturbed. New adjustments are required. How will you arrange your furniture into your new place? Why do attendants feel so compelled to check in on you and ask: “Do you need anything?”
“For everything there is a season.” Selling your car (that you’ve driven for years), and knowing you’ve driven for the last time, is a vivid reminder that you’re entering a new season. Sorting through memorabilia, choosing what to keep and what to let go of, becomes a difficult process – required by this new season!
“For everything there is a season.” Discovering ways to encourage your mother-in-law. Finding ways for her to help, while protecting her from doing the things that are now too difficult for her. Hanging pictures, decorating, and arranging furniture – creating opportunities to point out how wonderful and beautiful her new residence is!
“For everything there is a season.” Observing her sense of sadness gradually transform to a smile as she settles into her new home is a blessing. Realizing that her new season is also our new season – one that offers new opportunities to discover a new rhythm in which we can continue to love, care, and honor Betty.
Although Betty’s new season has disrupted her (and our) rhythm, we’re discovering the joy of walking in a new rhythm with Betty and God.
[1]The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton: Standard Bible Society, 2001), Ecclesiastes 3:1.