Roots Run Deep

The Oak Tree

by Johnny Ray Ryder Jr.

A mighty wind blew night and day.

It stole the Oak Tree's leaves away.

Then snapped its boughs

and pulled its bark

until the Oak was tired and stark.

But still the Oak Tree held its ground

while other trees fell all around.

The weary wind gave up and spoke,

"How can you still be standing Oak?"

The Oak Tree said, I know that you

can break each branch of mine in two,

carry every leaf away,

shake my limbs and make me sway.

But I have roots stretched in the earth,

growing stronger since my birth.

You'll never touch them, for you see

they are the deepest part of me.

Until today, I wasn't sure

of just how much I could endure.

But now I've found with thanks to you,

I'm stronger than I ever knew.

A touching poem I recently came across when a friend gave us a card during these tough times. It means a lot to me given that it is symbolic of so much. It reminds me of the beauty of life and how there are things that have deeper meaning and purpose. Helps me remember the strength that we have acquired during this journey while testing the limits of our faith over and over again.

Today was a day that saw many friends and family members come visit us in a show of support. It was great to see some old friends while meeting some new people as well. We greatly appreciated an old friend, Nataki and one of the Pastors from her church coming to pray for AA, ourselves and the whole family. It was very moving and we believe that God is always powerful and is in full control of the situation. AA was not startled by the praying but did open his eyes wide when he saw and heard the praying.  The most he had opened them in days. I guess he recognized the language of Heaven.  Thank God. We also enjoyed AA eating two pudding containers today while mama tried giving him some bread. He seemed more comfortable with the pudding. He also had a great deal of water another good sign. We also did some finger print paintings with AA's hands while he was sleeping. It was pretty cool and fun and will be posting some pictures up tomorrow of them. As usual we had the hospital staff look after us in an excellent manner. AA did stay a wake today for about 2-3 hours, similar to what he did yesterday as well. It was a hard emotional day for Michelle today. Hopefully she will feel better tomorrow. The only slightly negative thing that happened today was that AA threw up a good amount in the evening after everyone left. We had to wipe him down and bath him again. He seemed to feel better afterwards because his blood pressure went down to normal levels. About an hour before he threw up his blood pressure was really, really high. Well now Michelle & AA sleep as I wait for the clothes to finish washing and then put them in the dryer. We wish you all a very good night and hope that the Spirit of God will keep you safe and sound as your all sleep. God Bless us all. Thank you and until next time.

Roi