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October 10, 2008
I should really be on my knees singing the doxology. Four paychecks came in the mail today. In recent weeks as I’ve listened to the news about our country’s economic crisis, we’ve certainly been experiencing our own. But ours has not been a direct result of banks buying banks or mortgage foreclosures. And I guess, despite our situation, this is probably the best time in our history to be the little guy living paycheck to paycheck. We didn’t loose millions, we’ve paid all of our bills, never missed a mortgage payment or electric bill, the fridge is full, and we have not had to receive any assistance from the government. We did however get down to the bottom of the barrel, but then the mailman came bearing provisions! Our hope is not in a job, it’s in God. Yup, my faith was tested and I confess that I was very worried. But I’ve learned AGAIN that God’s timing is perfect.
Today Paul and I were able to go see the apartment where we will be living in about 6 weeks. We walked through with a kitchen designer….IMAGINE THAT! The most amazing part of seeing the space is that it looks like a mini version of our house! The living room has a fireplace, a red wall, and an arched doorway. This building evidently was built by Marshall Fields for their employees way back in the ’30s. So, true to the era, charm is everywhere.
After getting a good look, I took the kids to the playground right at the building and met another mom who frequents the park with her son. We got to chatting and it was like meeting a new neighbor. While watching the kids play, I decided to talk about Nathan and immediately knock down the wall of questions. It was an uncanny encounter in that we chatted very openly about Nathan’s Down syndrome and she asked me questions about how it was to raise him…that’s the first time anyone has ever asked me that. It was such a good feeling to say that it’s not been difficult. Time consuming, yes, but not difficult. He is a gift, a joy, and an absolutely charming little boy.
So, we’re taking small steps into our new chapter. My biggest challenge will be stuff…getting rid of it and being efficient. We’re ready!
Back to the economy, Andrei Codrescu has the best advice in his commentary “After the Bailout.”
Looks like you have done a lot of very hard work. Thinking about you and your family’s changes.