Getting ready for surgery at this stage of life can be a daunting task. On the one hand, Joe says he's "been there, done that" and he knows the routine. On the other hand, we know we have to prepare for a variety of outcomes.
We know to make sure our records are up to date including finances, living will and other such documents for medical care. We make sure we both know the passwords to all the various accounts and what's filed where. We have a checklist of sorts that we go through.
Part of our routine for these surgeries has been discussions of "what ifs." We've had conversations about life, death, life with and without a voice - lots of hard conversations.
At times like this it is very important to remember the big picture. I think of the phrase the solemnities of eternity. No matter what happens here on earth, we know there is more to come. Jesus Christ has made this possible.
One of the solemnities that gives us great perspective and comfort is our eternal marriage. When we were first married, our vows were "until death do you part." Later we were married in a temple by a person who had the authority to bind people on earth as well as in heaven - "for time and eternity." Jesus Christ speaks of this power and authority with Peter:
"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 16: 19
When is Joe's upcoming surgery? We will add you to our prayers.
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