Finding Peace At Last
By CJ Mills on May 18, 2008 in asher, parenting, stress, vacation
The last few days have been hell. I’d consider myself a fairly flexible guy, but Asher’s early entrance took it to a whole new level. I know have a greater appreciation for what my cousin, Chris, and his wife went through with both of their kids.
The reality of the situation didn’t hit me until this morning when Asher’s Doctor in Charleston called at 6:30 in the morning to give us an update. The update wasn’t really an update at all. Instead, it was simply confirming what we already knew - Asher was a premy with serious lung and breathing issues. Worry started to set in. Questions of “what if” started to fill my mind without cease. I did a pretty good job of seeming “put together” and “in control” because, after all, I am the Man of the house, right? At one point, I nearly broke down as Andy handed me the phone to speak with his Aunt who I’ve gotten to know over the past few vacations to Atlanta/Hilton Head. After asking how we were doing, she quickly stated that she would do whatever we needed her to do to help out and that she loves us. It didn’t matter that I wasn’t her nephew, or that I wasn’t related to her at all. All that mattered was that my family was in need. This is only one of the many stories of family and friends stepping up to the plate to pinch hit for us in a time of need. When things slow down, I will post all of the cool stories and connections we have made and how things like twitter and this blog allowed for quick information flow.
The photo below is what I saw as I walked into by bedroom tonight (obviously I had to Photoshop the image of Asher I saw I as looked out into the moonlit ocean into the photo I took, but you get the idea). For the first time in the last 24 hours, I felt peace. It didn’t last too long, but just long enough to remind me that there is a greater plan for all of this and that all I can do is lead my wife and daughter into the next chapter of the story we call Asher James Mills.
Thank you to all for your continued support and prayer. Pray for our travels tomorrow and that Asher continues to fight for an early return home. I have a feeling that things will feel a lot better when we are with him tomorrow.
Heather Duling | May 18, 2008 | Reply
Just letting you know we are praying for Asher and your family.
Heather
Brad Ruggles | May 18, 2008 | Reply
I can only imagine what you guys must be going through. I know that I don’t “know” you (in that we haven’t met face-to-face) but I’ve gotten to know you through your blog and Tweets. My wife and I are praying for you and can’t wait to hear the stories of God’s faithfulness and healing with Asher.
Brad Ruggles
http://www.bradruggles.com
Brad Ruggles’s last blog post…Bill O’Reilly Explodes
Kelly | May 18, 2008 | Reply
CJ- I will keep Asher, Andrea, Jadyn and yourself in my prayers. Your son is beautiful!
Marvin | May 18, 2008 | Reply
Hey man, your blog was read in church today. You have a large amount of people praying for you. May God show his faithfulness to you and your family.
Brook | May 18, 2008 | Reply
Hey…we love you guys. If we can help, mow the lawn…anything…just let us know. We’re praying for you…
Brook’s last blog post…a week gone…
Pat Rowland | May 18, 2008 | Reply
I know that there are still a lot of “what ifs” to figure out, but I’m sure there is some relief in knowing that there are fewer “What to do’s”. We are praying like crazy bro!
Pat Rowland’s last blog post…Congratulations and Prayer Request
Den and Nanda Wilson | May 18, 2008 | Reply
Asher is adorable!!!
Just a note to let you know that we are thinking of you and remembering all of you and your relatives back here in our prayers. I know that it must be difficult being so far away from your family and friends. We look forward to seeing all of you back in Roanoke soon.
karen rice | May 18, 2008 | Reply
C.j and Andrea,
You have a beautiful baby boy. We are all praying for you.
Karen Rice
Chris & Angie | May 18, 2008 | Reply
CJ / Andrea,
I know you are empty & exhausted. I’m reminded of the guy’s story in “90 Minutes in Heaven.” He was in a fatal car accident. During his recovery he was often faced with the fact that he could no longer fight for his own life. It was at that time that his friends fought/prayed on his behalf. As you’re already learning: In the times when you are depleted, there are people who you didn’t expect helping you fight for Asher.
We’re praying for you and your family.
Brooke | May 18, 2008 | Reply
Wow, check out the hair on that gorgeous baby boy! =] You have an amazing network of prayer warriors! We are all looking forward to having your family home! I am glad to see that you were reunited with Asher and that he is doing so well! Sending you prayers for continued peace and sound rest tonight!
Love you all!