Power Couple

My dad had his knee replaced this week.  In fact, I am hanging out with my parents for a few days to serve as the family waitress, nurse, and errand girl.  It's a job I am happy to have.  You see, watching your parent go through major surgery does a good bit to put a little perspective in your life. 

I watched yesterday as my father worked his ass off just to walk down the hospital hallway.  My mother followed close behind, her brows furrowed, her hands wringing with worry.  I watched as sweat rolled down his forehead, the pain overwhelming.  But he did not complain. Instead, he laughed, reaching over to take my mom's hand, letting her know he was okay. 

We talked a lot yesterday.  About mortality, about aging, about the struggles people face.  We remembered my grandfather, and how hard my grandmother worked to take care of him after his stroke.  We acknowledged our troops, and the seemingly insurmountable wounds many of them overcome after returning from war.  We even laughed about how little my dad did to help my mom after her back surgery 10 years ago, and how you just don't always understand until it happens to you.

As I watched my parents write yet one more chapter in their lives together, I was grateful.  I was grateful to have two parents who love each other and understand that what they share is precious and rare.  I was grateful to see that this surgery is bringing out the best in them, and that they are being patient and kind as he recovers.  I was grateful just to be there.

Thank you Mom and Dad, for your strength, your love, and your compassion.  You two have a real good thing goin' here.