A Challenge

 I learned to see diabetes as a challenge that I have to rise to each and every day." (Alex Reidy)

In the fall of 2004, when I was first diagnosed with type two diabetes, I was assured by my doctor that it was all weight-related. When I lost the weight, I would no longer be diabetic. I believe that doctor was mistaken because sixteen years I am over one hundred pounds lighter (due to weight loss surgery), and my diabetes has chosen to stay around like an unwelcome house guest (that has worn out his welcome).

In August of 2014, when my wife had her bariatric surgery; her diabetes was gone by the time she left the hospital several days later.  I was excited at the possibility of the same results.  I am no longer using several of my diabetes medicines and others have been reduced. In the daily progress of my life what I’d hoped for didn’t occur (though it could in the future).

I honestly believe that life has a rhythm and flow to it. I truly believe what Leon Brown quoted: “Not everything will go as you expect in your life. This is why you need to drop expectations, and go with the flow of life.”  Ecclesiastes 3:1 (TLB) simply states it this way: “There is a right time for everything.” I believe (in the grand scheme of my life) that God has allowed me to experience certain things (like diabetes) to make me a better person He can use in His service. I know God brings people in and out of each of our lives to improve spiritually, mentally, and physically (who we must become in the future.)

Though my heavenly Father has used a variety of men to help me be who I am today, I have watched the strong assertive women (in my world) live their Christianity boldly (by words and actions). Their positive influence on me during various phases of my life has been more powerful than they could have ever realized.  As I close this post, I believe it is fitting to take just a moment to recognize them (and tell them again “thank you”):[i]

My mother: Janice Zarbaugh

My sister: Kim Graham

My surrogate mothers: Charlotte Massey and Jean Dinoff

My wife and daughter: Bobbi and Allena Kinker

My grandmothers: Erma Eagle and the late Stella Kinker

My maternal aunt: Phyllis Eagle

My friend: Juli Critser

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[i] The topic of who has had the biggest spiritual impact in your life was suggested by friend, blog member, and pastor of CenterPoint Lewis Center, Josh Boyer.