Nothing like an inflammatory title to get folks to click on a post, right?
Anywho, Griffin Billings, the three year old recently diagnosed with leukemia at our church, had a day honoring him this past weekend. Griffin Day! A 5k was run, songs were sung, raffles were drawn and smiles were had.
In its aftermath I’ve learned that I had a couple failures on that day:
First, I failed to take the day slower… focusing on the facts and the people. Griffin is certainly sick, but folks showed up in droves to run, to laugh, to listen, to support.
Second, I failed to appreciate God’s grace… focusing on the realities of God’s goodness instead of the intensity of Griffin’s sickness. Sure, Griffin is sick, but allowing my exuberance on his day to be tempered by his condition missed the point of the day itself. I failed to celebrate as hard as I wanted.
Third, I now frequently fail to realize that there is no formula for these things. Griffin is sick. Two things have the power to heal him. One is possible – medicine. The other is perfect but can be mysterious – God.
What I won’t fail today is thanking God for that day. For Griffin’s Day. It was precious. Sweet. A hopefully positive memory that floats on top of the difficulty of the past few months for the Billings family.
*Last four photos courtesy of Lauren Ashlee O’Brian.
July 28th, 2009 at 11:50 am
I too will admit it was a little overwhelming. The only thing I can compare it to was my wedding day. In the sense that there were so many people to talk to, so little time, so much love and celebration to take in.
We, the Billings’, appreciate everyone that helped and supported us that day. We are also very thankful for the continued support and help.
Thank you Athens Vineyard.