Dooley Noted: 7/3/2017
On a much-needed trip for no reason, my husband and I flew to one of my favorite cities: Amsterdam.
I was so excited to show him the culture, museums, and amazing scenery.
On the first evening, my husband got very sick with hives. He had not experienced them since childhood, and he was very uncomfortable.
He is a master at meditation, which basically meant he was still uncomfortable but was not complaining much.
He put forth valiant efforts the second day to still be on a vacation. But each time he would walk and sweat, the hives would rage against him.
Medications and Chinese herbs slightly dissipated the discomfort, but he just couldn’t get comfortable. He could not sleep, nor walk, nor rest.
On our third day, I left him to attempt sleep as I was invited to lead an NKT study group.
On my long walk there, I felt very grateful to be out of a hotel room.
But as I took pictures of my surroundings, I felt myself go to my husband, who was too uncomfortable to be walking with me.
It was only a few years ago that I walked life without someone with whom to share it.
Perhaps in the past I would have just left my significant other in the room for more of the trip, to explore and visit museums.
But I just couldn’t this time.
My vows kept echoing to me: “in sickness and in health.”
And I know my Jonathan would be in that room with me, helping in any way he could to make me feel better.
So, perhaps your trips don’t go as you planned.
Amsterdam is not going anywhere.
And neither is this marriage.
We take care of each other during all times.
And perceiving that shift has been the best part of this vacation.
I am no longer searching for a great partner. I found him! Instead, I’m trying to be that great partner.
I think we can all work on that.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley