Another part we play
Warning: This post is going to sound like I”m bragging about my husband.
Disclaimer: I am. But you should listen anyway.
Tonight, just after we finished our supper, the phone started ringing. Wendell had seen thirty-six patients in the office today, and…he had a headache. But someone was having chest pain at our local Steakhouse. The staff had called 911, but we live thirty minutes from the nearest ambulance, so they’d feel lots better if Doc could come.
He came, of course. And he cared for the sweet lady and reassured the family. Then he directed traffic when the first responders, an ambulance crew, and helicopter crew all arrived and swarmed the dining room.
That is when the cool part happened. It wasn’t feasible to ask all the other diners to clear the room (it was fried chicken buffet night, after all). So, the first responders started stretching white blankets from arm to arm until they formed a portable ER tent held up by human poles. And my husband was the Western point. I tip-toed up beside him and said, “I can hold the blanket if you need to do something else.”
He shrugged, smiled, and said,”I’m not doing anything much more important than this.”
Then, while the paramedics started an IV in the privacy of the tent, Wendell held up his corner and talked quietly with the novice first-responder beside him.
I watched the scene and thought of the philosophy Wendell has lived by for decades. It is his motto for daily life, professional life, and Kingdom of God life.
“The part I play is less important than what I’m a part of.”
And, he means it.
We love your husband so much! We are glad to be a “part” of his “part”. Love you too!
Right back at you, Lori!
What an exciting night at the Steakhouse! 🙂
And, I love Dad.
So this one made me cry too. Maybe it’s just that kind of day…
Awwww Dad. Such a great guy. I always here him in my head saying, “Thanks for making me a part!” from the rat being used as a window cleaning rag in Muppet Christmas Carol.
Charity, I kept thinking of that scene last night! Sorry I made you cry, Carol. (unless you needed the catharsis)
I think you have the right to brag about that doctor you married!
Ok, I’m sorry, I just have to say … THIRTY-SIX PATIENTS?! Really, I did not know it was possible to see so many in one day. Thank God for doctors, and thank God for good men like Wendell.
I know I for one am so grateful for ALL the parts that guy plays in our lives!
I don’t see this as bragging at all. It is a testimony to what the Lord has taught Wendell and he is living it so the rest of us can see it and learn from it. You are simply sharing what you see lived out in a Godly man. (Whom, we are ALL very thankful for) 🙂
One of my many favorite dadisms. And then he LIVES it! It’s not often you see people truly being what they say they believe.