Thursday, February 14, 2008

Be quick to listen & slow to speak!

This little verse has take new meaning for me this week. Many of you know that I was diagnosed with vocal chord nodules back in the fall. My voice has not been good since Sept. and it has been a challenge for me. On Wednesday I saw my speech therapist who was very alarmed at the stage of my voice. She is enough concerned that she has asked me to STOP talking. Well, I can talk when needed, but nothing extra. She said that I MUST have vocal rest as much as possible - which translates into not speaking unless it is necessary. I was also informed that this is going to take a long time. If I don't take this seriously, I could end up with long term permanent damage or no voice at all. YIKES!!!

I have a choice to make. I have been told what needs to happen and the consequences if I don't remain silent. For someone who loves to talk for fun, to encourage others, to read stories to my kids, to pray, etc. the choice is obvious, but one that is very hard for me to make.

I have to admit, I was pretty discouraged yesterday, but today God has given me new eyes to see that He has something bigger for me through this process. Romans 8: 28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." I claim this promise for myself & ask that you'd pray with me. I don't know all I'm going to learn or understand about myself & Him, but I know it will be a sweet time. I definitely feel His presence and His gentle hand in letting me know He is working & that I need to rest in Him through this.

All that to say - please leave me a note on this blog or email me. I cannot talk but VERY occasionally on the phone, but I probably shouldn't at all. I need communication so keep me updated on you!

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sorry Kelly, Dad and I never thought you would be speachless. We know you are NOT at a loss for words but just speechless. It is okay, this too shall pass. Just be a good patient and do as you are told. Good that you journal, write down your thoughts and share with us later. Let me know if you need to give a speech somewhere I will send your dad!! Keep a smile on your face and in your heart you can get through this. Let the kids call me if you need something.
Mom xoxo

Platter Family said...

Dear Kelly,
I am certain that God will speak abundantly through your times of quiet reflection. If you have the Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest" read today's entry on the Discipline of Hearing. It focuses on Matthew 10:27--"Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops" I know this time in the dark (quiet) will be a time when you are more able to hear God than ever before and when He gives you His message, be faithful to shout it from the roof.
Love, Lynn
p.s. My sister and mom left yesterday.

nikki said...

kelly,
i am so excited to hear of all that you ponder during this next phase of life...i appreciate how you seek to glorify Gods plans in all of the details of life. i'll be checking up for more updates!
n.