Early this month we had an unwelcome guest in our home: the dreaded C-virus. When we realized what was causing the chills and the cold symptoms, our minds had to battle fear and anxiety. It seemed like all we heard were the tragedies and potential tragedies. And in those nights of uncontrollable coughing or the moments with shortness of breath, we wondered if we were indeed dealing with something dreadful. But deeper insight always returned with the morning light.

I disciplined myself to seek out how God was using this illness for His glory and my good. It wasn’t always easy but here are a few of the things I noted:

• It can be freeing to face my fears. This virus has been haunting us for over a year. The lives it’s taken have dominated the headlines. In many ways I was relieved to finally face it for myself and experience what all the talk was about. It was terrible but it was also survivable. And now I have natural immunity.
• The body is AMAZING! I didn’t any medication except for Tylenol and Mucinex; other than those, everything else I did and took were natural remedies. It took time but my body fought back and kicked the virus. Even my energy is fully restored and I have no inhibitions in my breathing. It was a reminder to me that our bodies are designed to fight illnesses and can do so quite well if they are supported by healthy living.
• I can be flexible! We got sick at the beginning of the new school year. Initially, I panicked. I didn’t want us to get a late start or fall behind. I pondered and prayed and decided we could do have half days of school until my energy and health returned. So we did. We didn’t miss a day of school and we are right on track. It’s good to experience a need for flexibility.
• Hardship brings blessing. During our quarantine and convalescence, we were flooded with kindness from others: dog sitting, groceries delivered, meals dropped off, activities sent for the children, and abundant prayers. We were humbled to experience community rallying around is. It was also a time to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses for a fresh start when I recovered. Not being able to care for my family for nearly two weeks made me appreciate it when I could do so once again.

The coronavirus is very real; it does bring loss of life and heartbreaking stories. But recovery from this virus is also very real. This was my experience and I’m thankful that I was able to have it. I believe I am stronger and more resilient because of it.