“Happiness, not in another place but this place…not for another hour, but this hour.” ― Walt Whitman

My mother has been getting fascinating and encouraging emails from a friend (a true warrior woman) whose son was in a bad accident similar to Vernon’s.  It was a long journey, and against the odds he survived.  She sent the following memory to my mother today.  It gave me a new perspective that perhaps Vernon isn’t just pining away for connection while we are not by his side.  Of course I don’t know yet if this is what he is going through, but I found it so encouraging, I wanted to share.

Both the tibia and the fibia were completely broken in two  and his knee cap was shattered. They had to put rods and screws in the bone to hold it in place. He developed an infection they figured that hid on the rod and they had to remove the rod put in anti biotic beads and then after a couple weeks they put in a new rod. It was difficult for all concerned but part of the journey. Of course his communication levels changed during this time. What I am so thankful for is that he has no memories of the hard times at that time. And also at the time, he basically lived in the moment. If you were there it was like you had always been there and when you were away he did not recognize the time like how long he was alone or how long you were gone. So much of his mental cognizance was basically taken with the moment and recovery. He was basically happy unless the meds were late. Once they got the meds properly adjusted. By the time he was ready to go to rehab he was so much further along mentally  and so ready physically to work hard. At the time we were more anxious as to losing time or things gained. But remember always God is making all things new.

This is also a reminder that my parallel-life goes on away from the hospital bed-side.  I can be fully present in the moment with him but also fully engaged in the moments happening away from him.  After all, “Life is available only in the present moment.” (Thich Nhat Hanh)

Above is a watercolor of Vernon and Maki on our trip  to Wales with his family, two years ago.  His talented mother made it especially for Vernon in this time, celebrating his ‘happy place’—fishing! Though he is very aware of our company when visitors are with him, I would like to think he is enjoying the moments in his mind while we are away, perhaps doing something like this.

One more thing: Vernon showed great response in his right hand again today, moving his fingers and squeezing a ball.  This is the hand that has been falling limp as the left side has been gaining strength and dexterity.  I am so thankful that connections continue to be made behind the scenes.