Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.
Philippians 4:13 ERV
***
Before we even boarded the cruise ship, I requested a wheelchair. It was a clunky thing and apparently had seen hard service, but it did the trick. I could – and did – still walk, but not far and not long. And I easily transferred to the dining table, since wheelchair seats are not designed for comfort. At least this one wasn’t.
***
And now, brothers, as I close this letter, let me say this one more thing:
Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right.
Think about things that are pure and lovely,
and dwell on the fine, good things in others.
Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.
Philippians 4:8 Living Bible
***
Travel is hard work, but I was making it harder with my negative and scary self-talk: I’m old and disabled. Now that I was managing my pain, I was able to enjoy the experience: A clean and comfortable stateroom. A cheerful United Nations of a ship’s crew. Connecting with fellow passengers. Watching dolphins play in the ship’s wake as we set sail. The ship gently rocking me to asleep.
And that was just the first day. Indeed, there was such a lot to praise God for and be glad about.