The Source of Courage
Author: Gail Babula (New Jersey, US)
After my stroke, I wanted to get better and return to my family and the life I had left. But after seven months I had made minimal progress; I couldn’t move or talk.
When I finally got home—in my wheelchair—everything was in place for my care. I thought that this would be how I would live for the rest of my life. I would never be able to care for myself fully again. I felt as if someone had kicked me in the stomach.
The people who visited me told me how strong I was for having gone through so much. But I didn’t think of myself as particularly strong; thousands had done it before me. They even said I had courage. Me, courageous?
A few years went by, before I began to realise that I wasn’t fighting this ‘courageous’ battle alone. God had been with me all along. When I look back at those early days, I recall I would often feel a sense of calm when I was scared. Where did that come from? I believe God was telling me that everything would be all right.
Every day I continue to deal with the effects of my stroke. But every day God is here keeping me going—giving me courage and helping me to inspire others.
Prayer: O God, when we find ourselves fighting for health, even for our very lives, we thank you that you fight with us. Encourage us with your love shown to us by those who join in our struggle. Amen
