A Crippled Deer
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
And Sue’s story goes like this! Living in the country has its advantages because we get to see lots and lots of different creatures scurrying around. The young fawns romp in the field under the watchful eyes of their mothers. The squirrels chase each other up, down and around the tree trunks as they chitter with delight. Woodchucks do their thing…whatever it is. The birds bring the mornings to life with their warbles and songs of greeting.
Among the many critters, there is one doe who has a crippled front foot. It appears to be broken and just sort of uselessly hangs. She comes out occasionally to feed. Even though she has learned to use her other three legs to navigate, she strikes a sympathetic nerve in the hearts of the observers. She does not appear to be emaciated, in fact, her ribs are not even showing. For that we are all thankful. Then she stopped coming.
Recently I was faced with a medical situation that was just a bit overwhelming to me. I am a busy woman, and my days are filled with all kinds of activities. Being retired, one would think that life would slow down but, in my case, it seems busier than before. How in the world did I ever get all these things done and work full time?
At a graduation party, I fell and broke my wrist. The orthopedic specialist announced that I needed surgery with a plate and screws to have much chance of future mobility. The uneasiness that took over is hard to describe because I am not a person to sit around. With my arm already in a soft cast, I began mentally and emotionally to list all the things I would not be able to do. It was a dark moment for me.
That night while sitting out on the porch, I was watching the deer feed and play during their nightly visit. Out of the woods came the crippled one. She paused and ate some grass and lingered with the others for a bit and then moved on.
Isn’t it just like God to bring you a comforting sign—just when you need it. I realized that if she could survive with a broken foot and brave the harsh elements of the winter months, I could be benched for a couple of months without complaining. A message came alive in my heart! If she can…I can!
Gracious Father, thank You for all the life-lessons that You share through nature. Thank You for our will to keep going even when life is painful. AMEN.
Co-authored with Sue Swoyer
Photo: Michael Johnston