A few days after my family’s return from a trip, symptoms reared their ugly heads.  Coughing uncontrollably, nearly sleepless nights, sore throat, and fever all descended on our little home in the country.  Doing regular chores drained my husband’s strength.  Life was not going as usual.

After several days of this scenario, we had our travelers checked for the virus. We were taken aback when the diagnosis came.  Since I presented no symptoms, I was not tested.  But when my temperature started to rise it was certain that I, too, had been invaded by the virus.

It became evident that we could not continue the usual routine without help.  Our capable friend took on the chores for morning and evening for many days.  My daughter, my husband and I continued to fight the ups and downs of temperature fluctuations.  Acetaminophen was a regular help at controlling our body temperatures.  Yet strength waned. 

I had the lightest case in our household.  I could still ride my exercise bike.  I could wash dishes and do laundry.  I set up meals for the family.  I cannot take credit for the menus, however. 

Friends and neighbors rallied to bring us soups, fruits, bagels, beverages, yogurt, fresh maple syrup, honey, cookies and even disinfectant cleaning supplies.  The good wishes and concern coming from all directions were overwhelming.  Neighbors down the road, relatives from nearby towns and out of the country called us, emailed us and sent us cards to lift our spirits.

One discipline I maintained was spending time reviewing promises set forth in the Holy Bible.  One such promise is Psalm 50:15 which says, “And call upon Me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver you and you shall glorify Me.” 

Another says, “Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.  For He Himself knows our frame and is mindful that we are but dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14.  This was certainly a time to call on the One who loves us so.  And we did.

So many of our friends expressed their thoughts about us and prayers they were presenting to the Lord on our behalf.  How wonderful to hear that others acknowledged the need for God’s mighty, healing hand to work in our lives.

At length, my husband’s symptoms became a concern.  He was exhausted.  We transported him to the hospital for help and he was admitted.  Since my daughter and I were still in quarantine, we could not see him for seven days.  That week went by slowly.  We were never quite sure when we would be welcoming him home again. 

But finally, the big day arrived.  We picked him up from the hospital and made the drive home.  His strength has slowly returned.  We all look forward till we hear the words, “Your quarantine is ended.” 

photo credit: adafruit Basic Digital Body Thermometer in Celsius via photopin (license)
photo credit: steevithak 2020-04-11_12-44-20 via photopin (license)