He has had a challenging year. At least a dozen medium to major problems have plagued us. Him, particularly. A deer hit his truck and it had to have extensive body work. A tree hit him and his tractor and the tractor had to have serious repairs. He was only slightly damaged. The children have had vehicle issues with which he assisted. He had some minor health issues to get through. He changed hunting leases. We lost a good cow. I counted one day and came up with twelve or thirteen issues. Since that time, we had a few days without power. He had to get the generator going to keep the icebox and freezer in good shape. The big trailer’s tongue broke off at the lease and he had to get it welded back together. Most recently, major plumbing problems have arisen.
If any of this is mentioned, he is instant to say: “God took care of it.” And of course, He does. There is insurance for the truck and the health problems. A generator is ours to fire up for power. There are friends to help with a place to sleep with air conditioning. Other friends to help with on-site welding. His own strength and hard work to take care of many other things.
I am grateful for the protection and provision He supplies. I am grateful for the strength of the man I married. Physical, mental and most importantly, spiritual. I see the side of him the world never encounters. I see him tired and frustrated. Wanting to just crash in his chair and zone out watching television. I see him deal with headaches and back pain and kidney stones. But, I see him get up and go to work day after day. He has almost never missed work due to illness. When he did, we likely went to the ER for something. I admire his toughness and his courage. It can make for some difficult moments for me and then protect me from difficult moments as well.
Occasionally, a tender spot will show. Usually it is associated with our beloved children or with Him. I see him tense and concentrated thinking about them. They are both married, independent, well into careers of their own. But, his attitude of protection and guidance is still as it has always been. There is a grand on the way. It will be very interesting to see him interact with the little one. I am sure I will see things unimaginable from that tough, old bull.
Raining Orchids 