January 10, 2025
A cheerful heart is a good medicine. Proverbs 17:22 NRSV
It’s funny how little sayings, passed around by loved ones, friends, and family, become code words for something so much bigger. Here is an example, “Anne, you look like you could use a little medicine,” said my mother-in-law Joyce, during a break in the Progression Game the family was playing. “Huh?” I replied. She motioned me over, reached into her purse, and pulled out some chocolate candy, offering me a piece and taking a piece for herself. The message delivered was a sweet reminder that I was a part of the family, that I was seen, remembered, and included.
Over time, this became code that chocolate, often in the form of M&M’s, was available. I’ve taken on the task of being the “medicine” holder in my own circle, for my husband, our sons and our grandchildren. I’ve been known to make a quick stop at a convenience store when going to visit them to make sure I had some “medicine” on hand. To be caught chocolate-less, was to fail.
Joyce didn’t stop at having a supply of chocolate on hand. When our sons arrived, I could count on Joyce coming to help. She’d arrive with bags of groceries to prepare all the homemade dinners she’d prepare and freeze for later. She’s show up with cleaning supplies and Playtex gloves to clean – not because I kept a messy house, but because she loved caring for others. She always left our house cleaner than when she’d arrived. She also took time to change diapers, soothe a fussy baby, or give a new mom time for a much-needed nap. Joyce delivered good, practical medicine in her humble, unassuming manner.
We don’t have to be medical doctors to provide good medicine. A cheerful heart, with some chocolate stowed away, goes a long way. ~ Anne
Wayfinding 