When Things Go Awry

I recall a friend years ago recounting her wedding day when she made her way down the aisle with 104 degree temp.  My husband Terry tells the story of a friend whose bride limped down the aisle on crutches at her Washington D.C. wedding.  (Full disclosure:  Terry was the driver of the couple in a pre-wedding celebration that resulted in the crash that caused her injuries. They had been a bit too enthusiastic, shall we say, in their celebrating, and 19 year-old Terry in his diminished capacity plowed into a CIA man’s car.  Amazingly, Terry and the couple remained friends).  Wedding- related or not, we all have our experiences When Things Go Awry.

This brings to mind Winnie the Pooh.  As I languish post-Christmas with a very bad cold, feeling as sick as I can remember in a very long time, the memory of those hopeful little characters cheers me.  Nobody likes being sick but I resent it:  I had Things To Do.  But even the gloomy Eeyore was full of wisdom for When Things Go Awry.  Witness:

              “It never hurts to keep looking for sunshine.”
                —Eeyore

And here is one that rings so true as I seek to remind myself of what I am thankful for in the midst of Nyquil and cough drops and Kleenex:

         “After all, one can’t complain. I have my friends.”
               —Eeyore

Friend Meg brought all manner of medicinal remedies and a big container of chicken soup.  Multiple people checked in on us (as Terry is sick now too).  With the help of friends, I think I have secured someone to blow off the next round of snow that is due to start soon.  I’m feeling better even as I write this! 

Blessings in the New Year.

May we be bearers of hope, the “wait staff” of Hope’s Café for each other and all those we encounter.  Shalom, Kate

Hope’s Café Bonus:Flu Season Ginger Honey Lemon Tonic: 1 cup water

1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger (or more to taste), peeled and coarsely chopped

1/2 medium lemon

1 teaspoon honey, or to taste

1 ounce whiskey (optional)

Place the water, ginger, lemon juice, and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Pour the mixture through a strainer into a mug and add the shot of whiskey, is using.