RESURRECTION IN IRELAND
My Mother died at the much too early age of 62, after a long, painful bout with breast cancer. Her illness was so difficult and protracted that my Father chose to take time off from his job; insisting in being the sole caregiver. When Mom died, he seemed completely lost. Dad did not bounce back to his pleasant, easy going self; he was in a dark place and was not doing any better after several months.
Roisin and I were planning a trip to Ireland to visit her family & friends. We asked Dad to come with us because the change of scenery might be good for him. We were thrilled when he agreed, since he did not enjoy traveling. I have always felt that he agreed to go with us because he realized that he had to do something to break out of his despair.
As soon as we landed in Dublin, Dad’s spirits seemed to soar. He started to come alive, enjoying the company of Roisin’s family and friends. He was pleasant and witty; quickly returning to his old self. The trip was truly a resurrection for my Father, lifting him from the darkest depths of depression he was suffering from my Mother’s death. After this trip to Ireland Dad had a renewed outlook on life.
I am convinced that this trip was the point in his life where he broke out of his devastation over Mom’s death and bounced back to lead a productive and full life for an additional 15 years. My Father was popular and upbeat; it had been so sad to see him down and depressed. After “The Trip,” everyone in the community and his Church rejoiced at his recovery.
This is my clearest memory of seeing God’s healing work.
Tim McKeithan
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