Day 3: “But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength,” -2 Timothy 4:17.
Strength is a common theme that I have seen scattered around the operation rooms, however; it simply is not restricted to the physical strength many patients display. It is reflected in their devotion, resilience and steadfast outlooks on life. In moments of discomfort, it is incredibly easy to lack reassurance of how much someone is capable of and to focus on hardships.
Despite this common theme, many patients stayed grounded in their faithfulness towards God and trusted that He and the doctors would carry them to a body restored to health. One of the patients I had met was a very passionate, diligent worker.
He cherished playing soccer and was devastated that he would be out for a few weeks. With this in mind, he used this hunger to drive his strength to challenge his body. He ended up walking the night of the surgery and is continuing to stay grounded in his hope of recovering efficiently. He made me realize that strength is not always blaring, but is simply the power of showing up, remaining loyal, and trusting in God’s plan.
Their devotion to being determined resulted in me shifting how I view the definition of strength. These patients have shown me the importance of being present, facing challenges with an open-mind, and to staying grounded in our faith.
Samantha and Charlotte Hirshorn/Blogger & Photographer
