Friday, May 18, 2012

Lessons From the Edge

Everything is better with a friend by your side.

Solomon said two are better than one, and I saw the truth in that statement this week.

I went to a rehab facility to visit one of my favorite residents. He’s been in the hospital and now is going through rehabilitation so he can get strong enough to move back home.
While I was there, it was time for D to go to physical therapy, so I tagged along. The therapist put weights around D’s ankles and gave him an exercise to do. Only D wasn’t very excited about it. As in, he wasn’t trying very hard. So I cheered him on and started doing the exercise with him, counting each rep and encouraging him to make a good effort.
The therapist had D do a few more things and then it was time to walk. It was also time for me to get to work so I said, “I have to go now. So I’ll walk with you.” But when the therapist told D to stand up, he just sat there. He repeated the command, “Whenever you’re ready, stand up.” But D kept not moving. So I looked at him and said, “Let’s stand up together. On the count of three, come on. 1, 2, 3.” And we both stood up.

The scene reminded me of many other times someone at Edgewood has been hesitant to do something, or go somewhere. But – somehow - just saying, “Come on. I’ll do it with you,” has gotten them to move. Because they weren’t alone. Solomon was right.

Everything is better with a friend by your side.

Karen

7 comments:

Patricia said...

What a blessing you are to the residents of Edgewood! And I'm sure they have blessed you too! :)

Have a great weekend!

Edie said...

This is SO true! And you are a most WONDERFUL friend!!

Karen Hossink said...

Patricia - They most certainly have blessed me. Every day! :)

Edie - Thanks. So glad I can call you friend!

Leah Adams said...

I love how God uses you in the lives of the Edgewood residents. Love your availability.

Karen Hossink said...

Leah - That's the beautiful thing. When I am feeling discouraged about working or simply am having a bad day, God gives me the opportunity to be a blessing to the residents, and I know I am right where I need to be!

Anonymous said...

Two are better than one....Yes,for sure! So many times we try to rely on ourselves,our own power,to do things. But we fail, and I believe God made us a social creation because He wants us to help eachother. Karen, what a blessing you are to D! I'm sure he is so greatful for your help and friendship. Thanks for sharing this story, it is a reminder to me to be aware of being available to serve those around me.***chera

Karen Hossink said...

Chera - You're quite welcome. That's a good thing of which to be aware. If only we always were... :)