Sometimes in my pursuit of “normal,” I blind myself to the precious gifts found in that which is “different.”
This is a “different” day. It’s the first day of school for Macey,(8th), and the first day, “of not the first day of school” for Carter,(9th). It’s different!
I think it’s not uncommon that “different” is not thought of as good, better and definitely not best. It is something often brushed off and used to define things that make us uncomfortable or nervous about acknowledging and even embracing.
Today, I am very appreciative of the opportunity to welcome and embrace “different.” We are going to celebrate “different” today at The Egg and me for breakfast. This is how Carter asked to spend his first morning of his not first day of school.
I am reminded that “normal” can be such a place of false security and perceived social acceptability that I can strive for, that I exclude the possibilities, miracles, and treasures found in “different.” “Different” is beautiful. “Different” opens my eyes to an abundance of new miracles that my view of “normal” excludes. Welcoming “different” supplies a precious fountain of gratitude that cannot be found in “normal.” If things are always “normal,” we can never know different, and if we never have the opportunity to encounter all the faces of different, we can never fully understand how blessed we are, and what matters most in this life.
Today “different” feels strange but definitely sacred. It feels foreign yet fortunate. It is the marrying of so many emotions that are all legitimate but overshadowed by such gratitude for what is, in light of what could have been. “Different” is a unique dwelling where both grief and gratitude co-exist. It is an odd place that is unexplainable, just experiential.
Two weeks ago today began a fast, furious and frightening journey. I am so thankful today to be sitting here at breakfast with Carter in an atmosphere that may be “different” but definitely delightful. I am so abundantly grateful for all the miracles and blessings that have emerged from that place of frantic uncertainty. Lastly, I feel very fortunate to experience yet another facet of “different.” It makes me more aware, amazed, awestruck, and more grateful for the example of Jesus who was the most loyal friend of “different.” Here is our “different,” “first day of not the first day of school” picture. I am so grateful for this picture, and for all of you who have prayed and continue praying for Carter’s recovery.
D’Anna