Journal Entry 12/23 From Kristi

First day since Zac’s surgery that I didn’t get to be with him. Rich and the kids arrived via plane yesterday and since covid policy only allows only one of us with him at a time, Rich spent the day with Zac. Even though my heart ached as I left his room last night, there is only one thing that would pull me from him - my other three Blessings.

I dropped Rich off at the hospital and sat in the car under Zac’s fourth story window, imagining their joyful reunion. I know Zac was excited to see his Dad as well and demonstrate his improvements and show him around Craig. (When he is not in a therapy class, and there are many, Zac has the liberty to putter around anywhere on the campus now on his own in his electric chair.)

He took Dad to the Peak Center gym for a good workout, demonstrated his arm control with virtual reality Fruit Ninja, and even took a first crack back at the piano (using his left hand to hold out the right hand’s pointer finger and tap out Heart and Soul).

The kids and I were running errands near the hospital and managed to coordinate a 10 min hello with Zac through the hospital window. We stood outside (it was freezing!) while Zac and Rich remained inside, and we communicated through speakerphone. It worked out great minus the freezing temperature.
Such a blessing to have all 6 of us together for a moment.

Every time I see Zac, he is smiling. “The joy of the Lord is my strength” (Neh 8:10) is not just a feel-good verse. It is truly evident in Zac’s heart that the Lord is keeping him strengthened because has absolute confidence in God. He doesn’t question God. He isn’t fearful of the future. He enjoys the moment and is kind to everyone who interacts with him. He trusts the Lord is in control and is leading him. God’s joy is upon him.
I have so much to learn
#zacsHope is Jesus