Dear, Henley June,
About a year ago, our microwave broke. Being the frugal ones that we are, we voted to see how long we could survive without one. Not to mention our counter space is limited. Thanks to our toaster-oven, we are content without a microwave. I cannot say this was the case our first week without one. Instead of taking one-minute to reheat left-overs, it now took ten. Your father and I would lean over the counter staring aimlessly at last night’s meal through the tiny window. We would tap our spoons as leftovers lost their plasticky veneer. Man, were we hungry. Man, were we impatient.
We did not think we would make it that first week. We thought we would cave, and cough up another $45 for a new microwave. However, by about the third meal, we began to love the conversations that grew out of our spoon-tapping-ten-minutes of waiting. The death of our beloved utensil enhanced our nightly rhythm with a much-needed rest.
I still have quite a bit of room to grow in the “patience department”. As one who likes to execute ideas quickly and efficiently, I don’t enjoy waiting to see results. Left-overs, your Father, heating in his truck, directions for seminary, peace with my roots, the ability to speak more assertively, and wet paint have all kept me waiting in life. As always, God has worked for good despite my whiny prayers and distracted patience. And, as always, the end result has always surpassed my expectations.
Prayers for patience are currently ringing loud and proud in our house. We have been trying to “create you” for three months now. I know, I know, it takes the average healthy couple four to five months to procreate. It is truly mind-blowing that some produce offspring on accident. From ovulation cycles, to stress levels, our health as individuals-there are somany things that need to line up just perfectly. I don’t know why we thought we would be pregnant by now, I guess we are just obliviously optimistic. Oh, how your Father and I can’t wait to morph the study into your nursery. You are my first thought every morning, my final prayer at night.
My friend and future doula has informed me that I need to distract myself while we are “trying”. It might not be best for your father and I to be planning for you until you exist. This makes sense to me, so I am trying my best to be distracted while being patient. I am learning Spanish, becoming a gym junky, and losing myself in my career.
All in all, I am trying to cultivate an attitude of gratitude for this season of my life. How blessed am I for our fantastic family and friends? How blessed am I to be able to live out my calling in such a supportive local church? Very blessed indeed! I will be patient for you, knowing that your father and I will meet you in God’s time.