elephant on my chest

I woke up this morning with a baby elephant on my chest.

I did what came naturally.

I tried to ignore it.

Fresh pain in the lives of people I love fed it,

exponentially,

so that by noon it was an over sized bull elephant.

I went to my room

I cried

I texted some prayer warriors

I cried some more

I screamed into my pillow

(I didn't want to scare the grandchildren).

I took comfort from the hugs of my girls 

who haven't gone home yet

and from the loving, supportive responses 

from those I had texted.

I cried some more.

When the ugly overwhelming waves of pain eased,

we packed up the grandchildren

we went to Ashland

we got Chick-fil-A

and headed to the park for a picnic lunch.

Starbucks for the adults after the play date.

Soccer practice.

Dinner at the house provided by a loving friend.

The elephant is hovering, but not crushing

I am thankful the sweeping waves are not constant.

I am thankful to be loved by the One who speaks to my heart and says "Peace, be still."*
I am thankful for the prayers, support and love of family and friends.
(*Mark 4, Matthew 8)