Decisions

The craziness of the coronavirus is forcing us to make decisions we aren’t quite ready to face. What will Corey do next year? Should we move out of the rental earlier because we don’t know if the borders will be shut down? Will Corey live with another family next year so he can continue at South? In the end, we decided to head back to Michigan and gather necessary items but wait to decide about an early move. It’s hard to know if Michigan schools will resume in April or May. Indiana schools are closed until May. Will Michigan follow? How long will the virus last?

Before we left for Michigan, I received a request from one of the first grade parents. “Is it possible for you to videotape yourself teaching the Bible memory verse? I am not quite sure how you taught it in class and neither is Travis.” I practically jumped out of my chair and prepared my script. Caden used my phone to videotape my crazy Easter chant. Our property provided the perfect background to share the Easter story.

While packing up the rental yesterday, I forced myself to swallow tears. Memories of times with friends, the students at the various schools, visits to Royal Park and Waterford, and our frequent beach visits kept coming to mind. I consoled myself with the word temporary. One can do anything temporarily, right? We hurriedly packed up the plants, some clothing, and food.

As we passed the Zeeland exit, it was difficult not to stop. Could we stop and create some kind of outside greeting to my father and the residents? It didn’t seem possible at the time, so we continued the drive. Instead, I phoned Royal Park. The nurse brought the phone to Dad’s room and asked him questions. “I’m dizzy, ” he answered to her questions.

Our time in Michigan will end at some point, my father’s health will continue to deteriorate, but one thing remains– He is the victory over all. Matthew 28 reminds me of the news– He has risen!