It has been one month since we began embracing life in the presence of COVID 19. Our little world has dramatically changed. Last night, however, our focused tunnel vision elevated to new heights of perspective as John and I watched an Easter concert by Andrea Bocelli, live from Duomo de Milano.
As light poured through vibrant stained glass windows, the rich tenor tones of a solitary voice accompanied by organ filled the empty Duomo. The sheer beauty of the sight and sound of a master sharing his talent and his faith in an acoustically vibrant cathedral was thrilling. Framed by shocking images of the empty streets of Italy, Paris and New York City, that breathtaking beauty became not only stunning — it was sobering.
To close the concert, blind Bocelli walked the length of the cathedral unaided and in silence. Proceeding though the Cathedral doors outside to the empty streets of Milano, he closed by singing Amazing Grace.
For John and for me, the entire concert was a deeply moving experience as we contrasted the realities of world wide devastation with the miracle of healing and encouragement that our family was personally experiencing in the midst of it. For us, it had truly been a week of encouragement!
On Monday, Elyse was informed by her doctor that having been ‘temperature free’ for a week, that now she could go out as needed and tolerated, wearing a mask. While Lyse has felt daily improvement— fatigue, lack of energy and achiness continue to plague. In the early days of this week, she did not feel quite strong enough to deal with the dogs, yet felt deep loneliness, missing the energy and companionship that the dogs provide. On Saturday, April 18th the longed-for reunion took place. Once again her family was complete.
On Sunday, April 19, Meghan was scheduled to work once again in the COVID ICU. In the early morning hours, I texted her the reminder that we would be backing her in prayer throughout the shift. She texted back at 6 am that she had just been cancelled. It seems that at this point, our peak is leveling off here in Indy. Support staff are not needed quite as urgently, at least not today. Another sign that the relenting personal surge is easing for our family. Indeed, we are encouraged on all fronts!
Amazing Grace!