Unexpected Guests

I would like for you to meet a group of new friends. They came to stay a week, maybe ten days. Their arrival was a complete surprise; no notice given. But that’s alright, we can make room in our two bedroom apartment. I say new friends, but I met one of them several years ago in a similar situation. Happily, they don’t require special treatment, they seem to mix together quite well, and if all goes as planned, they might be off to their next unannounced stop in a week.

So, say hello to Paxlovid, Mucinex, Nyquil, Tylenol, Lidocaine, and Benzonatate. Last name: Covid-19. Pax is the one I met before…hasn’t changed a bit, looks just the same. Honestly, I’m glad they’re here. Their visit will be beneficial to me and, I hope, pleasant for them. But there is one thing I’m wondering about: how do you handle unexpected, even uninvited guests who show up at your door? Or, stated a different way: when life changes suddenly, disrupts plans, introduces an element of havoc, dictates when and where you can go…what do you do? Lots of options, some of them good, some not. Once the shock is over and these guests move in, I try to remember a wonderful bit of wisdom from Virginia Satir, renowned family therapist. Something like this: “Life is not what it’s supposed to be. It’s what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.” And wouldn’t you know it: I get the same advice when I complain to Jesus. Just live one day at a time, he reminds me. Tomorrow will take care of itself. I’ll stick around and give you some company, if you like.

Always good to know you’ve got a friend to talk to. So, there you have it. I will be hospitable to my friends, but, truthfully, I’ll be glad to see them go. They’re looking for a next stop. Any takers?