I’m noticing a subtle change in Mary Elizabeth.
While she’s always predicted a full recovery, she’s now talking about it with more certainty and conviction. I knew that this was only a matter of time, but I think it’s also due to the strong support and positive reinforcement she’s receiving from friends and family who have been visiting.
I’m certain that the intensive therapy program she’s been receiving is part of it as well. Every aspect of the program is focused on re-building her physical, vocal and cognitive stamina, and I think we’re all beginning to see the results. That’s not to say that it isn’t a long road ahead – because it is – but at least I’m feeling that we’ve put some distance behind us finally.
We are so grateful for the positive support, good wishes and prayers of our friends and family and couldn’t have come this far without it.
I was talking with Jessica last night, whose visit overlapped with mine, about how an experience like this clarifies one’s life and brings into focus things that are more important, while diminishing the prioity of things that aren’t so vital, but may have seemed so before.
Several years ago, I took a course with somebody who had been through her own health crisis – oddly enough also a stroke. She was an Episcopal priest, so looked at things through a spiritual lens. When she was talking about her stroke and her recovery, she kept talking about purification – I remember she kept repeating the phrase, “God will purify.”
I didn’t really get what she was saying at the time, although I recognized the theme from Handel’s Messiah, but am beginning to understand a little more the kind of purification she was talking about. It’s the burning away of those things that aren’t that important or even detract from the essential. But it happens through a difficult, painful or destructive process. What comes out the other side however is refined, pure and good.
In many ways I see that happening to Mary Elizabeth, me and possibly all of us. It’s been a painful process – but a transcendant one.
Sorry about the philosophizing – especially first thing in the morning!
Thank you to those who have visited and again apologies for the calendar fiasco. Just email me at getbettermaryelizabeth@gmail.com and let me know when you’re coming.
Moved in Sundry Places 
Scott-I check in with you early in the morning and this is a very uplifting message for us all -you have weathered so much in the last three months and you now have Mary Elizabeth back on a level that buoys you and us all. It is so encouraging, heartening and uplifting to follow your progress as a team!! We have major flooding here in MA -to stay with the biblical theme, I’m wishing there was an Ark ready to transport me to work -that or an amphibious vehicle. Keeep up the good work Mel and Scott!! xxoob
It is great news all around, part of the recovery is believing in one’s self that there is nothing impossible to overcome. Keep up the great work and our prayers for a full recover will continue.
All our love,
Suzy & Bob
Scott, I think we can all see and feel the calm that has come across you. Not that there isn’t a hard road ahead, but having Mary Elizabeth back here and seeing her spirit in full gear is so uplifting. We are looking forward to visiting very soon
Dear Scott & Mary Elizabeth
Your progress is uplifting news for all of us. It reminds us all that there is nothing we can’t do when we have faith, strength, the love of our family & friends and most importantly God listening to our prayers. May He continue to bring you the strength you need on your recovery journey. Keep up the good work. Some days may not be easy but try to remember all that you have conquered already. You both are stronger than you probably ever believed you were.
God Bless,
Bob & Carol
Dear Scott and ME, Your comments remind me of a time many years ago when ME locked on the notion of “Simplify”. She she gave me and many of our friends the advice to do just that, with a big smile. Perhaps she even purchased (or made, my memory not what it once was either) a pillow with that message. I recall navy blue on a creme background. Anyway, Purify is one better as it seems more lasting… Much love and keep up the good work!
AK
Hi Mary Elizabeth,
Like the ‘Little Engine that Could’, we all know you will make it up that hill. What a wonderful Easter gift to your friends and family to have you back on this side of the pond.
Welcome Home!
Patricia
Dear Scott and Mary Elizabeth, It is hard to imagine anyone who could be as true and honest and inspiring as the two of you. Hang in there, and know that love surrounds you. Big hugs! Noelle
Hi Scott and Mary Elizabeth,
I just got home from church. On Holy Wednesday, we have an unction service. Everyone is anointed for healing of physical and spiritual ills. And I couldn’t believe it when our priest talked about purification that comes from suffering and the healing that follows. Maybe he follows your blog!
Alexa
I was thinking of you guys today. I’ve been home sick with both twins so I’ve put myself on quarantine until things get better here.
I’m so happy to hear about all the progress, but so stressed that I haven’t had a chance to come up there yet. I suppose good things come to those who wait, right? And I just don’t want to wait anymore..lol..
I’m ready to make you guys laugh, bring the nurses some cookies (and Mary Elizabeth if she wants) and just talk.
I’m there with you everyday in spirit.
Sending good vibes all the way from the lower east side (on Mulberry Street).
Nat
Dear Scott and Mary Elizabeth,
I love your philosophizing. The process of purification is difficult indeed. I feel in many ways so many people are going through this in their own ways; be it spiritual, physical, emotional financial or all of the above. I know so many who are suffering right now only to experience a kind of rebirth as a result. I pray that your process yields a greater understanding of what is really important in this life; to love one another and be of service in all that we do.
Emma
Your such an amazing couple,I hope the future is a smooth one.