God Speaks With Humor.

Today, my wife and I went together to a doctor’s appointment. We went to discuss some medical options to address a matter of concern for us. While it is an important decision, there is no urgent health concern on the forefront. Nevertheless, the situation requires thought, preparation and agreement.

As we approached the appointment, Marian and I had differing views on the best solution, based on differing personal biases. Admittedly, we don’t quite see eye to eye on this one. In my newfound holistic approach to healthcare concerns, where possible, I tend to prefer simple solutions that don’t involve ongoing synthetic medicine. At the same time, I understand and accept the value of western medicine. In this case, a western approach suits me fine.

While Marian endures me politely, I don’t think she understands my holistic notions and certainly doesn’t share in them much. Also, in this instance, she has some perspectives based on emotion that I cannot relate to. Nevertheless, we both attempted to go in with open minds and hear the options and ask questions, so we could make an informed decision that we both can be comfortable with.

The doctor began by presenting option one, the solution I preferred from the onset. Risks are minimal. The process is simple. The solution is practical and very effective. I was smiling, eager to hear the input and pleased with what I heard. The doctor was detailed and covered all the bases. I was confident this was a good choice. Further, the doctor was so upbeat and positive, I felt sure I was correct. Marian was quiet, cautious and inquisitive, clearly not as responsive as I was to option one.

Then, the doctor moved on to option two. Option two was more in line with Marian’s preferences. As the doctor spoke, his eyes sparkled. His voice bounced. Marian sat up. Her face brightened. She was more interactive. I asked some questions, but the answers confirmed Marian’s interest, even as they confirmed my disinterest. As the exchange went on, I barely spoke. Though I tried not to show it, I felt somewhat irritable and at least mildly antagonistic. My posture changed. Then, sitting on the edge of my chair, I slid my feet out in front of me.

The chair quickly tipped forward and I splatted onto the floor. The incident was startling to all three of us, and it focused awkward attention on me for a moment. I got back up in my chair and regrouped mentally.

It was clear to me in an instant that the fall was no accident. In my heart, I knew that I didn’t fall out of that chair. God sent me to the floor. The doctor was giving many details that illustrated his view that option two probably made sense as the most viable solution for our situation. Marian was thrilled, as it fit her interest. I was not connecting the dots. I was not on board with the plan. And, I got a strong message. Thankfully, I realized it in the moment, and I did my best to refocus. By the end of the appointment, I acknowledged that I believed my wife had made the choice already. We agreed to think it over to solidify our decision, but I think we’re done with this one.

Admittedly, I still have reservations. If I were deciding alone, option one would be my choice, clearly. At the same time, in this case, the proper response would be to defer to Marian. Despite my knee-jerk reaction to Google every possible reason why option two is worse than option one, I am striving to refrain. Of course, I have looked up some information, so that we approach the matter with reasonable information. But, I won’t belabor the point.

For me, anything medically related involves research, questions and digging into the options with a goal of finding a holistic option if possible. If a traditional western approach is required, I want a practical, safe and sure solution. Marian does not take my approach and she includes an emotional perspective that differs from mine. Thankfully, though, I have peace of mind, knowing that God is in control, especially as he made His presence known to me today. His message to me was clear: in this case, my role is to listen and be supportive. Too bad I didn’t get it without being shoved into it.