1/30/2013

Missed Opportunity

We had a tornado watch last night. The night staff woke us at 3:09 a.m. We proceeded to the long hallway where chairs were lined up against the wall, which is the safest place in the building as you can see: no windows.

We were half asleep of course, but as we sat and waited, I thought to myself: this is a perfect time to pray, not only for our safety, but for the folks where severe damage was being done. There were winds up to 107 mph just North of us. We could hear the wind howling and pelting the rain against the door in the front of the building.  
I began to seize the opportunity to  perform a spiritual work of Mercy through prayer. I began "Our Father who art in heaven.. . ." but I couldn't get any further, so I tried "Hail Mary, full of . . ." my brain froze again, and again.


Every effort at every prayer was bungled. Roused from sleep in the middle of the night, my brain refused to cooperate. I was stunned to think I couldn't finish prayers I was sure resided in my DNA. So much for holiness.

It was a noble thought to pray for those in the path of the storm, but alas, the spirit was willing but the flesh was half asleep. (the storm passed over us and into the next County) Thanks be to God.

6 comments:

Monica said...

Awe! Well, I feel certain that God heard love in your heart. I hope that there was a minimal amount of damage. Glad you were safe.

Sue Morales said...

What a lovely (and entertaining!) story. You made me smile! I am glad you and dad are safe.

Your favorite daughter

Terry said...

Sounds like you didn't miss a thing and did the best you could with what you have. I rest confident that our heavenly Father knows your heart and that is what I believe is important.

Maryellen said...

Thank you Monica. I do believe that God does count our intentions. There was damage in the County but not much in our small town.

Maryellen said...

Thanks, Sue. I'm glad you liked my little story.

As you know, Dad and I have always lived in a God Bubble. I don't fear storms, but I don't take our safety for granted either

Maryellen said...

Thank you Terry. I agree. God does know our hearts.

Dad and I send our love to you, Debbie and the rest of your growing, growing family !!