Justin is hard at work today in our little learning environment, made up mostly of donated items. A very special thank you to Gloucester County Christian School and those who helped and contributed to making our transition to homeschooling smooth and successful.

Justin also had his first session of physical therapy this morning. Recalling our disastrous attempts back in March, I was all silent prayers and cheeseburger rewards. The difference in how Justin is feeling since then was so evident as he willingly and even happily cooperated with the therapist to perform leg strengthening and balancing exercises.

Justin’s therapist asked him how he was feeling after a set of foot stretching exercises. He said, “well it’s not all chaos.” She looked puzzled, but I knew exactly what he meant. He was simply just too sick and too traumatized for physical therapy six months ago.

Although I don’t know the reason, I do know that God is teaching Justin how to persevere. Trials come in all different ways, and I know that each of you carries your own burden. Some much more difficult than I can relate to and leave me doing that bumbling-idiot-fumbling-around-for-words thing.

I only know that there IS hope.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

We are so grateful for the healing that has occurred in Justin’s body and mind. And, although we don’t know what the future holds for him, we are trusting God’s sovereign plan. I think Justin said it best when I congratulated him on a job well done after his physical therapy session.

“It’s all God, mom.”

That’s right, baby, that’s right. Grace be with you, my friends.