I once was blind, but now I see

Every week, we get to be a part of life changing surgeries for the patients on our wards. Sometimes the healing for them can be a long slow process.

But every once in a while, we slip out to the dock at 1:15 in the afternoon to experience these moments. To hear the beat of the African drum, the pounding of their dancing feet, and see the joy in their faces.

 

  

 

These are our cataract patients. Their recovery time is quickest and their joy immediately evident. 

I've thought about joy these past few weeks. Sometimes it's evident in life, easily flowing out of my heart. And other times I have to search for it. To choose each day to have joy.  

I want joy like this to flow from my heart each day. Even when I have to work a day shift (evenings are my favorite around here!) Or am working when all my friends have the day off. Or am just missing home. I choose to remember the joy that I have been given, just like these cataract patients, I once was blind, but now I see. 

A few weeks ago a media team from France came and did a documentary on the ship. We took care of Natasha, a patient featured here, on our ward. 

http://www.france24.com/en/20131024-down-earth-hospital-vessel-health-mercy-ships-africa-training 


"Amazing Grace" - Hullabahoos