Chivalry and Answered Prayers

Sometimes we utter a silent prayer and wonder if it is heard. Sometimes it is a prayer of gratitude for blessings both big and small. Sometimes it is a prayer of yearning when the heart aches for peace and comfort. 

It had been 2 ½ years since Mike’s stroke and he continued to progress. Nevertheless, things were different. I missed the days when Mike would offer me his coat or take my hand without notice. Before the stroke, he opened doors for me not because he thought I was weak but because it was one way he showed me love. The stroke had left him limited in so many ways and, at times, he was almost childlike. He wanted and often needed me to take care of him. 

Instead of holding an umbrella over the two of us in the rain, he would make sure he was covered without noticing that I was getting drenched. If he was cold, he would gladly take my coat or blanket without thought for my comfort. It was hard. I wanted to give but also felt lonely at times. I missed the feeling of “us.” As I was prone to do, I took my troubles to the Lord. I poured out my heart in prayer and let the tears flow. I have learned that answers don’t always come in an instant. The Lord hears and answers but not always in the ways we want or expect.

Not too many days after my prayer, Mike and I headed to the Fitness Center for some exercise and training for an upcoming 5K. I started to open the door to the building when Mike said, “I got it.” He shuffled and struggled but he pulled the door open and nodded for me to go in first. The same thing happened on the way out. His efforts to hold the door open made it difficult for him to balance, but I saw Mike’s love for me in his eyes. It was that touch of chivalry I had been missing. Life and love both look different now but God is good and continues to guide us.