A New Beginning

From the Desk of Cheryl Hauer

If you have ever had a concussion, you might know what it’s like. Headaches, confusion, photophobia, confusion, memory loss, confusion, unsteadiness, dizziness … oh, and did I mention confusion? Such is my world right now, and since this is my second concussion in two years, the symptoms are more extreme than the injury might typically have caused. Not exactly how I wanted to spend the next few months, but through it, God is giving me an incredible opportunity to rethink my life.

I am learning to be very intentional, to slow down, and walk with a cane. No more 12-hour stints at my computer to meet a deadline or pushing through anxiety or discomfort to achieve a goal. Now, I spend as much time in my dark, quiet bedroom as I do working, and on some days, even more. And what can you do in a dark, quiet room with no technology for extended periods of time? Sounds terrifying, doesn’t it? But it is actually a wonderful opportunity to pray for so many things and to have long, intimate conversations with the Lord. I keep my phone handy to record voice memos, because I know I'll forget the very things I want most to remember. But it is time with Him that I would otherwise be too busy to take, so I am truly grateful. Thankful for His loving and comforting presence, His guidance, and the many wonderful, small ways He shows me how much He loves me, for my many amazing friends who faithfully pray for me, and for my incredible husband, who patiently fills my days with laughter and safety.

I know there are many who are suffering with things much worse than my temporary affliction, and I really do consider it a privilege to have the time to actually intercede for others. And as dismal as some of this might sound, I really am slowly getting better. And I am learning about self-care which has never been very high on my list of priorities. I do look forward to the day that I will ‘have my brain back,’ but I pray that the lessons God is teaching me will stay with me for the rest of my days. And in the meantime, He is showing me amazing, wonderful things in His Word … more about that next week.

Blessings and Shalom,

Issachar Community