A DREADED CALL
I was at a lunch meeting when he called. I didn’t recognize the number and unless there is an emergency I let the calls go to voicemail. When I retrieved my voicemails out in the parking lot after lunch I was startled. “What’s he doing calling me?” I thought to myself.
I missed the number he left that was different than the one he called from so I had to go back through my voice mailbox that was, “Almost full!” her annoying voice reminded me. I must have erased over twenty messages trying to get to the unexpected new one – no exaggeration.
The sense of urgency was beginning to overcome me as I raced through the old messages, deleting more than I really wanted to trying to get to that number. I finally pushed my way through the forest of technology and back to his message. I listened to him again. My stomach sank again.
He’d never called me before. I’ve known him on a professional level for around ten years and had received many calls from his office, but never from him… He has almost as many people working for him as he does in his lobby when it’s full of people, and he was calling me personally? I mumbled with dread, “This isn’t good…”
I returned the dreaded call and went through the technological maze of prompts to eventually get to a real person, “How can I help you?” the professional but impatient voice asked. I told her my name and that I was returning a call. “Did the nurse or the doctor call you?” she asked, clearly confused. “The doctor,” I said.
She put me on hold for a few minutes before she transferred me. The nurses station also put me in technological limbo while they tried to reach the doctor, “He stepped out, I’ll have him call you as soon as he gets back,” she said kindly. “Okay, thanks,” I said without trying to hide my disappointment.
The bumps I’ve had on my neck for over a year I couldn’t seem to shake. I’d tried all things natural before I went to my regular doctor who prescribed antibiotics that had about the same effect as all the other remedies I’d tried. I sought the specialist, the same guy who has cut lots of curious, dangerous, and cancerous things off my over-exposed-Arizona-fair-skinned-body over the years, but not once had he ever called me personally… I was nervous.
There are days and circumstances that make a person think. “It could definitely be bad news,” I thought… then, “What will I do if it is? Will I live with a definite limited number of days any differently?” I began to ask myself all kinds of questions. Some regret crept in… my wife has wanted to do some things that I’ve put off due to business and a busy life… I knew if it was bad news, she’d be mad before sad…
Then I prayed… I had more peace than I thought I could. I was hoping for more time, but if we don’t get what we assume we’ll get or think we deserve, will we think it unfair? What if it benefits others, like the person I just had lunch with and who I shared my faith in God with?
Tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us and while I’d miss my family and you, I’d be at peace…
The doctor never told me when he finally did call why he was calling personally, “It’s not bad news,” he said… I’m thinking the only truly bad news would be for those who don’t know the Truth and our Savior… If you got the call today, how would you feel? Would you be mad, sad, glad,? Or all of the Above…
Tuesday, September 24, 2013 @ 7:13 pm
Ok, you sure had my heart thumping. So glad to hear there was no bad news and thrilled to hear the worst news would be not knowing our Lord and Savior.
Lifting you up in prayer for healing of these bumps.
Blessings.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 7:01 am
I couldn’t ask for a better gift! They’re still lingering… Thank you!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013 @ 11:08 pm
Been traveling, got home about hour ago, thought I’d check a few of my regular blogger post out before bed. I must admit I jumped to the end for the “reason” you got a personal call from your doctor. I exhaled as I read, no bad news. Only you could make a mystery out of bumps on the neck…good job brother and thank you Lord for the end result. Before the white hair I was a red head and my fair freckled skin has yielded some of the same results. I have been told by doctors that hours in the sun with only baby oil on me to get that desired tanned look is a disaster waiting to happen. I don’t think they liked my response that even fat looks good tanned. This is one true story everyone will exhale at the end.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 7:04 am
I’m sorry, Betty! I didn’t mean to make you tense! Those of us with fair skin that spent more than our share of time exposed to the sun as kids are paying the price now… We’ll breath perfectly with no need of oxygen… You’re too funny! How I appreciate your honesty! We could all do with being a bit more real with ourselves.. Thanks, Betty.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 5:32 am
Glad to hear (if this is a recent incident) that all is okay. That doctor put you through a lot of drama. But it did give you time to reflect about that vacation with you wife, etc. Thanks for the lesson my friend.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 7:05 am
Thanks, Bill. Yeah, I’m still fighting the little demons! But, I did get my passport! It was a long day, but nothing is for nothing… as they say. Thanks, Bill.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:06 am
You had me scared there, Floyd. I’m glad the news wasn’t bad. But you’ve also helped to prompt me to change. I’ve been blogging and writing so much I’m gaining weight. It’s time for more exercise again.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 7:08 am
I’m glad this could be a prompt for you, Dan. I find the exercise helps my mental clarity as well… And I need all the help I can get! Thanks, Dan.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 10:20 am
It is indeed a dreaded call – I was glad that my news was delivered face to face, and not over the phone. Freaky the way the guy called you personally, but as you noted, “Tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us and while I’d miss my family and you, I’d be at peace…”
Once we get that into the core of our thinking and live with the hope and expectancy He wants us to have, we wear this life a little more loosely.
Good stuff there, Floyd 🙂
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:03 pm
“We wear this life a little more loosely.” Profound and wise words, my friend. I was thinking of you when I posted this, Rick. I know what you’ve gone through and have a significantly deeper take on the subject. Thanks, Rick.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 11:02 am
Wow. With times like that, I’d just have to trust that God would give me the strength I needed when I needed it.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:05 pm
It definitely rattled me, but I was encouraged that it didn’t take long to seek the One who holds all things in the palm of His hand and perfect will. Thanks, Loren.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 12:21 pm
Wow, Floyd, I was getting concerned for you…whew! Glad it was nothing bad…now you have to do what your wife wanted so she can be glad instead of mad (wink, just kidding you)…I think those calls make us pull back and ask ourselves if we really believe God has us in the palm of His hand..blessings to you and your family 🙂
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:08 pm
I’ve already applied for my passport! I think our Father has to use extreme messages to get the stubborn to take note! Thanks, Dolly, and blessings to you and yours as well.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 12:44 pm
Seriously…thanks for dragging this out- NOT!
I had to fight to not skim down and find out if you received bad news or not! GEEZ.
Good writing, but nerve raking.
Anyway, this past summer I started wondering how I would live my life differently if I knew I only had a certain number of days. I still haven’t come to a definite answer to that question, but I think it’s something we all ask ourselves from time to time.
by the way, glad it wasn’t bad news.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:11 pm
Sorry, TC! I didn’t even think about adding dread to your life! It was a wakeup call in a lot of ways. Another lesson learned… Life is full of them when we’re looking for them, aren’t they? Thanks for sharing your attitude and thoughts, TC.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 3:58 pm
I know why the doc called you. He read your blog and thought to himself “this guy would be a great friend.” Who knows…someday we may read how you and the doc went fishing together. But I’m thinking that you are a fisher of men. I like the question you ask us to ponder. I ask myself what my days would be like if I knew I only had a few left. It’s always the same answer; I search my heart and make sure I am not at odds with anyone forgiving and praying for those who offend me. I absolutely hate the things my ex-soninlaw is doing to my family, but when I pray for him with compassion, I feel so close to God. Explain that one.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:15 pm
I think the doctor is getting tired of cutting things off of me! I had to ponder that thought seriously that day… I so appreciate that you’re praying for your son in law. You’re following the will of our Savior, “Pray for your enemies.” Your obedience and heart is an inspiration. Seriously great lesson for me today. Thanks, sister!
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 5:20 pm
Those wake up calls can be scary, but you are prepared even for sad news. Perhaps it is time to do some of those things your wife desires. At least squeeze them in one at a time. We truly hope for a few more days. Just to finish something still undone. As an investment in people, I am taking 12 of my book one books with me tomorrow to give to the nurses and who ever is there for my second cataract surgery. It will be very early Thursday morning as it may be a tough one. God is good and gave me a specialist. I should recover well. We will spend the night as there is a follow up the next day.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:17 pm
I always appreciate your perspective and attitude, Hazel. And yes, I’m planning on doing some of the necessary things on my to do list. I’m praying for your surgery, Hazel. Bless your heart and eyes, sister.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 5:20 pm
It’s odd that the doctor called personally, Floyd, and I”m sorry that you had to suffer that angst. Ususally, they only call when it is bad news or more tests are warranted. I’ve had such calls. And you’re so right: Our minds shuffle through all the possibilites like dealing a deck of cards. I’m so glad your news wasn’t bad; I’m also glad that it caused you to think. It would be wonderful if we would all live differently as a result of wake-up calls.
Fondly
Lynn
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 6:19 pm
It just dawned on me right now that I should have titled this post with your words, “A Wake Up Call.” Each day has a lesson for us if we’re looking for them and paying attention. Thanks for sharing that wisdom, Lynn.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 8:06 pm
Glad you’re okay, Floyd. I would just as soon get my youngest graduated and through college before I get one of “those” calls. Bur after that, I’m not sure how I’d feel. I’ve had calls like that twice where it seemed like it would be bad news. The first time I was nervous, the second time, complacent. As a Christian, I have hope, and I also look forward to going. But still – it would be hard to leave everyone!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:00 am
Great answer, Barb. That’s really what it is all about. It comes down to how we’d react in the moment. It’s a tough walk through this physical world. Thanks, Barb.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:53 am
When I read this post I thought of Moses in Ps. 90 saying “teach us to number our days Oh Lord.”
We truly do not know how many days we have. But what we do with those days is the real issue. Great story Floyd!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 6:16 pm
“What we do with those days.” It’s not just talk, is it… It’s about action. Good reminder, Dave. May we have the wisdom “number our days.” Thanks, Dave.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013 @ 9:33 pm
Dear Floyd
Oh, I hear your heart. I went from doctor to doctor after my general practitioner told my my Fibromyalgia was all in my head. Deceived church people told me that it was demons and tried to expell them. I recall one lady saying that she is convinced it was the demon of death and the one of insanity trying to kill me. Another pastor and his wife told me it was because I was not serving the saints and another one told Andre and me it was because I was rebellious towards Pappa and Andre. Floyd, I nearly died because of this. I am so grateful that Pappa has enabled me to truly forgive these people from the bottom of my heart. My dear brother, at the moment, I am experiencing the worst flare-up in seven years and I would appreciate your prayers.
Much love and sweet blessings.
Mia
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 1:37 am
My heart goes out to Mia who has played the “whipping-girl” to supposed believers who parrot the faith talk in total imbalance. So many beautiful things, dear Sister come through the fires. Your providence is just that – Yours…and the goats need not shuffle their muddy feet over it. Take the time, perhaps now, to read Ezekiel 34.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:04 am
Sometimes we know more than the professionals and almost always more than the ones who are passing judgements… I’m sorry to hear about your condition, Mia. I’m praying for you, sister.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 1:32 am
Panic is like going out the front door without your clothes. Stop! Re-group through an up-shot prayer. Give praise unto an all-powerful Father Who is aware and at your side. Wield the weapon of thanksgiving. Clouds of drippy ennui are burned away by the Son.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:05 am
Great analogy, Doug. You nailed that! The power that sustains life at every second is not only on our side, but in our hearts… Thanks, Doug.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 2:17 am
Hi my brother
Thanks for Ezekiel. It hits the nail on its head.
Blessings XX
Mia
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 4:29 am
OK Floyd WOW!!!
Very powerful thoughts and feelings!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:06 am
Most of us have been there or are going to be. May we have the peace of He who resides within. Thanks, Lisa.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 7:16 am
Sorry to be so absent my brother…life has a way to get busy! I’m so relieved to hear it wasn’t one of “those” calls and I’ll be praying for those bumps to fade away!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 6:14 pm
I know you’re a busy guy! I appreciate you anytime you can make it by and I really do appreciate the prayers, brother. Thank you, Jay!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 10:50 am
Your thoughts tie with what I have on the blog today Floyd. Tomorrow is not assured. We have today to make a difference..in our own lives and the lives of others. You have me thinking on what practical difference I am making in my corner of the world. thank you.
I hope everything is well with you.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 6:25 pm
I noticed that we’re on the same page today, Ngina. That lets me know I’m on the right page! There’s lessons to be learned daily if we’re looking for them. Thanks for the heart and compassion for the things of our Father. Bless you, sister.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 10:58 am
Ok, you got me…I must admit, I had to skip ahead to read the ending. Glad your ok. Did you get your wake up call? No regrets!
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 6:26 pm
I did get another wake up call… you’d think I’d be paying attention by now! It’s great to hear from you. Thanks, Gail.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 4:12 pm
Well, you sure got my heart, Brother. Wouldn’t be too surprised re: health issues. BUT I so agree that the only thing we care about is how often, how many times, forever, until headed to heaven, we can share the Lord, share the Word, plant His seed, and draw people to salvation and help them grow. That’s all we can do. This was especially touching, encouraging, focused in the truly Right Way.
Thursday, September 26, 2013 @ 6:31 pm
I know you’re going through tough times, Joanne, but your perspective and attitude is encouraging and uplifting. Amazing how our Father can use all things for His glory and our redemption. I’m praying for you and Dave. Thanks for sharing this. It did much for me today…
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 6:29 am
Dear Brother Floyd…I am so relieved to read that you are ok.!!! You had me scared! Do you think God throws these moments into our path to cause us to re-evaluate? Sometimes I think so. You MUST take that time away with your precious wife!
I have, so far, not received such a phone call. And I’m grateful for that. But, whenever I lose someone dear to me, or hear of the untimely death of someone in another family I know, I do pause and give thanks and re-think what this whole journey is all about. Someone once told me it’s all about knowing Christ, and taking as many people to Glory as we can. Our greatest treasure being the ones we help lead to the Saviour. All else in this life will burn away like chaff.
So, my friend, keep leading others to Him…but DO take time to smell the roses along the way…with your lady. Life is too short. Live large.
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 5:50 pm
Excellent advice, Jillie. I’m planning on it for sure. My passport arrived in the mail this week. “All else in this life burn away like chaff.” Great call and reminder, Jillie. I’m listening… sometimes it just takes a wake up call… Thanks, sister.
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 10:26 am
It’s scary. I remember getting calls about my mom and her health issues. I remember one particular one after she decided to stop breathing about 2am while I was with her in Anchorage, Alaska. I don’t think I slept the rest of the time I was there with her. Thanks for sharing this story. It’s a good reminder to shift focus as much as we can to the things that really matter.
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 5:52 pm
It really is a series of wake up calls, isn’t it? I remember the call about my dad as well. All lessons from our Father lead to wisdom if we’re paying attention. Thanks, Phil.
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 2:28 pm
Well, I’m glad it’s not bad news. I think we have all thought about those same things, more than once. I truly feel we are leaving here and going to a much better place. But the reality is quite scary. The concern for how everyone we leave behind deals with the loss is my biggest concern. We are really the fortunate ones who go to our final resting place, paradise if you will. I think this is why we should live our lives as it’s our last day. Do kind things as well as let others know how much we love and appreciate them. Take notice of the beautiful sky or gentle rain, maybe that unbelievable rain smell. If we do, we are happier and the ones around us as well. Great story
Thx, for your wisdom.
P.S. miss you guys, give my love to the family
Friday, September 27, 2013 @ 5:54 pm
You summed that up in a beautiful and poetic way, Brad. Wonderfully stated, my friend. I’d say you’re doing exactly that… I’ll be seeing you soon and looking forward to it. Thanks and give my love to yours too, Brad. Always an honor to hear from you, brother.
Saturday, September 28, 2013 @ 2:39 pm
Hi, Floyd. Glad it wasn’t bad news, but like so many others you had me worried for a bit. Amazing – writing and resolving a cliff-hanger in 500 words or less. I think you’ve got a gift.
I’m sure if it happens to me I’ll be wading through neck-deep guilt and a pile of coulda-shoulda-woulda, lots of sadness and regret before I ever come to peace with it. Such are the consequences of a compromised life …
Saturday, September 28, 2013 @ 3:21 pm
Oooo… “A compromised life…” That’s powerful and painful, David. The gift of free will is a vicious double edged sword, isn’t it? May we live the lives that our Father has designed for us… Easier said than done, brother… you and I both know that. Thanks for the kind words, David. Have a great weekend, my friend.
Sunday, September 29, 2013 @ 2:45 pm
Hey Floyd. Havent been here in a while. New job, with new responsibilities, and longer hours make it hard to. But I said I would…so I did.
Thank God it wasn’t what I think it is. My heart was in my throat.
…and I too am believing for your healing…and thanking Him for it.
Monday, September 30, 2013 @ 10:11 am
It’s good to hear from you, Mike. I know what you mean about being busy, I’m slammed myself! Thanks for taking your precious gift of time and sharing it here. I appreciate it. And sorry for giving you a scare, it was a scare for me, I’ll tell you. Thanks, Mike.
Monday, September 30, 2013 @ 4:37 pm
This post is a heart stopper and thanks for allowing it to show up at “Tell Me a True Story.”
Monday, September 30, 2013 @ 5:08 pm
Thanks for having me, Hazel. I’m honored every time, sister.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013 @ 10:26 am
You had me holding my breath there for a minute! Glad you’re ok and even gladder (is that a word?) that you have that peace that passes all understanding. I say I have it, but I haven’t gotten a dreaded phone call yet. But I really do think once I got over the shock, I would be ok. I know where my home is and I know who will be there to greet me. I can’t help but smile over that! If I do get a dreaded phone call one day though, feel free to pray for me. And I’ll pray the bumps go away~
Tuesday, October 1, 2013 @ 2:23 pm
That sounds like a perfect deal, Kristin; I’ll pray for you and yours and you can pray for my family and me! I know you’re solid as a rock, sister! Thanks Kristin… We don’t get better offers than that in this life! Bless you!
Tuesday, October 1, 2013 @ 12:21 pm
It’s amazing how a situation like that can make one step back and consider what’s truly important. The unknown can be a scary thing, but we fortunately we have an Advocate who we can go to at a moments notice. Glad you’re ok.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013 @ 2:25 pm
Amen, Mike. It rattles us, but in the end shows us who we really are and what we really have inside us. Not fun, but a season for learning. Thanks, Mike.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013 @ 8:30 pm
That is one of those, “though you slay me, still I will trust in You moments.” And I have no idea how I would feel. I would hope that the hope and deep trust I think I have for my Savior would rise to the surface but I…just…don’t…know.
Thursday, October 10, 2013 @ 9:45 am
I think when our Father prepares us slowly over time He’s demonstrating His perfect love and grace. We all get there, it’s just a matter of when. I’m with you, it’s not easy, but when the time comes may we bring Him honor. Thanks for your honesty thoughts, Rachael. You’re not alone.