Reflections

As the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange and red, fall invites us to slow down and reflect. This season's cool air and beauty remind us to appreciate the blessings we often overlook in our busy lives. Personally, I find myself praising the goodness of God and how it has been a guiding force during challenging times.

Two and a half years ago, I faced a major challenge when I hit my head on a metal pipe while cleaning after a tile installation. What could have been a difficult recovery from a head contusion became a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness., What to Do After a Mild TBI or Concussion | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC.

A Moment of Crisis

The day of the incident is vivid in my memory. One moment, I was going about my day; the next, I faced the reality of a head injury. The physical pain was intense, leading to a healing journey I couldn’t have navigated alone.

My primary doctor was on vacation that day. So, I made an appointment when he returned in a few days. He said that my assessment was within normal limits.

Finding a comfortable position to put my head on the pillow was a struggle for almost seven months, as the back of my head was extremely tender. Each night, I prayed for comfortable sleep. During this tough time, I felt God’s faithfulness more than ever. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." My husband and two friends prayed with me regularly for pain relief.

When I saw the neurologist two weeks later, he confirmed that the head assessment was within normal limits. The head tenderness would resolve. He did not know when. The physical therapist's neck exercises relieved my head pain. Avoid long-term pain medication to prevent rebound headaches.

Why Pain Medications May be Affecting Your Concussion Recovery | Complete Concussions.

The Gift of Speech

One of the most transformative aspects of my recovery was recognizing the beauty and intricacy of speech. I treasure this vital ability. Communication is at the heart of who we are, and the idea of struggling to gather my thoughts quickly was daunting.

However, within just one and a half weeks after the event, I experienced a miraculous turnaround. My speech returned to normal, filling me with profound gratitude. I genuinely appreciate word retrieval to convey my ideas effectively.

Daily Activities and Independence

Reflecting on my journey instills a deep sense of gratitude as I complete my daily activities independently. Whether it's cooking a meal, driving, grocery shopping, or taking a walk independently, these tasks have become treasured parts of my life. This appreciation extends beyond physical abilities; it resonates deeply within emotional and spiritual facets of life as well.

According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recovery from head injuries can lead to a heightened appreciation for daily life, and CDC emphasizes prevention (use helmets, fall prevention, safe sports practices). The long-term effects of head injuries include changes in mood, cognition, and quality of life.  Symptoms of Mild TBI and Concussion | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC.

Embracing Gratitude

As I navigate this reflective season, I continually recognize the power of gratitude. It’s all too easy to dwell on what we lack or the obstacles we face. However, cultivating a grateful heart shifts our focus toward recognizing the abundance around us.

The Beauty of Fall

Fall illustrates the concept of change beautifully. The striking colors of the leaves remind us that transformation can occur in our lives, even when we face challenges. Hebrews 13:5 reassures us that "He will never leave us nor forsake us."

Time for Reflection

In this reflective season, I encourage you to take a moment for yourself. Consider the ways God has shown His goodness in your life. Reflect on challenges you have faced and how they have contributed to your growth. What resolution did you find? Feel free to share any of your applicable verses in the social media comment space.

Journaling or sharing your thoughts with a trusted friend can be a fruitful exercise. Reflection can lead to deeper understanding and appreciation for your journey. It also opens the door to recognizing how God has been at work in your life, often during the roughest times.

A Season to Cherish

As autumn unfolds, I am reminded of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 declare that "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is His faithfulness." After my incident, I hold everyday blessings more dearly.

This time of reflection isn’t only about revisiting the past; it’s an opportunity to live in the present and look forward to what’s ahead. God is always with us, offering comfort, hope, provision, and strength.

Let’s use this time to foster gratitude and appreciate the goodness of God while supporting one another. Together, we can find joy in simple moments.

A peaceful autumn landscape showcasing the beauty of fall

Calls to Action

1. Reflect on three things for which you are grateful.

2. Share those items with someone. Include a social media comment.

3. What challenges did you confront? How is your life strengthened?

4. Consider journaling.

5. Purchase "Fully Persuaded Faith" or "Live Abundantly" on marilynnjames.com.

   Both can add depth to this discussion.