10.18.11
Over the last couple of years, the infertility journey that Eddie and I are on has taught us a number of things. For one, we have learned a LOT of medical terminology. (almost more than our little brains can hold...don't worry, I won't subject you to any.) Second, we have learned that those that have previously or currently struggle with this problem are the only ones that can ever understand the emotions that come with the journey. Third, infertility = isolation. Every single couple I have spoken with feels like they are on an island, alone.
For Eddie and I, the last several years haven't been easy. Like other couples, we too have felt the isolation and the emotional roller coaster with each passing month. It's easy for questions like "Is God punishing me or trying to teach me a lesson?" and "If children are blessings from God, why isn't he blessing me?" to rise to the surface. We go from being angry, to sad, back to angry.
But today, something changed. Let me share with you what I read this morning:
There's a story in John 9 about a man that has been blind his whole life. When Jesus healed the man and gave him his sight, the disciples wanted to know whose "fault" it was that the man was blind- they were sure it had to have been him or his parents who had sinned. Jesus states "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." (John 9:3)
The article I read states: "God wasn't angry at the blind man; He wasn't waiting for the blind man's faith to grow. He wanted to display His glory, and He handpicked the blind man for this very special mission."
It put it all into perspective for me. God handpicked Eddie and I to go through this so in the end He can display His glory. What seemed to be a punishment turned into something much, much greater.
Today, I am choosing to be thankful for this journey we are on.
I am thankful that God has brought Eddie and I closer together spiritually than we ever were before.
I am thankful that I have developed new friendships where infertility is the common bond. I may have never met several of these people otherwise.
I am thankful that when we are blessed with a child, the appreciation and thanks to God will never stop flowing from our lips.
I am thankful that I can relate to others who are experiencing this pain we have felt.
I am thankful that God handpicked us so He can show His glory through our story.
Today, in whatever situation you are in, choose to be thankful.
Brittney
