Juli Henderson
Jun 16, 20213 min
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m headed to the hospital with Robert, and my phone is dying! I can’t get it to work right. Ugh!”
“Which hospital? I’ll meet you there.”
Cell phones and hospitals do not always make great companions. But, before we can even discuss those times when my phone dropped out in the Pediatric ICU, I need to tell you that my technology expertise is somewhat lacking. (Somewhat? Ok, lacking more than my adult kids’.) I know what I know, and when I need to learn some new technological skill, I always consult with people way smarter than I am. Surround yourself with smarter partners, kids and friends!
So, when my cell phone was dying as I was rushing to the hospital, it didn’t occur to me that the girlfriend I was speaking to could help me out. I was so focused on getting out the door with Robert and his medical gear, that I just word-vomited all over her and moved on to the next subject. Ever done that? -Just used your friend’s ear as a place to unload every thought in your mind? -It is not pretty.
I have the most incredible friends. They range in age, gender, social and economic status, and racial diversity. I could not possibly begin to tell you how very blessed I have been to have them in my life. It puzzles me, but they have been my rocks at different points. Some have been there to rescue me; and others to push me to the next triumph.
I didn’t really know what I needed that day. I honestly do not remember if it was a time when my husband was deployed in the Middle East, or just a day that I was on my own to get Robert to the hospital. But when she heard me, she knew immediately that I needed a friend to hand me a workable cell phone. And she was there.
It wasn’t planned for that day. It wasn’t requested of her. I wasn’t looking for her to solve my problem. She just showed up with what I needed the most because she knew that I would be doing life from that hospital room. I am not always technically aware (that is a nice way of saying it), but I am always, always grateful when someone jumps all in where I am lacking.
You may feel lacking today. You may feel lacking six months from now. When you do, remember that you have people around you that get you and can help. Even when you are not aware of your need, there is help.
Cell phones and hospitals do not always work together seamlessly, but I know there are people around you who can hear you. I know from experience. They are there to listen and show up…even when you word-vomit all over them.
Sorry, (not sorry) because I needed my girlfriend to hear me desperately that day.
Listening Library: All I Need to Know (Cynthia Clawson)
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13 NIV)
All I Need to Know
Look at my face
I know the years are showin'
And look at my life
Still don't know where it's goin'
I don't know much
But I know I love You
And that may be all I need to know
Look at these eyes
They never see what matters
And look at my dreams
So beat and so battered
I don't know much
But I know I love You
And that may be all I need to know
So many questions and still no answers
I climb and climb
But never get the view
But when I know You’re near me
Sometimes it feels so clearly
The only truth I'll ever know is me and You
I don't know much
But I know I love You
And that may be all I need to know
In my heart
You’re my inspiration
And in my soul I know that
Love is our salvation
I don't know much
But when I know You love me
That will be all I need to know
I don't know much
But when I know You love me
That will be all I need to know
Written by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, and Tom Snow