May 31: An Honorable Son

My best friend is putting his mother in a nursing home today. Tough day. He has been amazing and inspiring to watch during the past two years as he has cared for this woman who gave birth to him while Alzheimer’s has taken it’s toll on her body and mind. It’s been a damnable tug-of-war between man and disease for his mother’s mind.

Some would say that putting your parent in a nursing home is a dishonorable thing. He has done everything to provide for her and allow her to stay in her home and enjoy the highest level of independence for as long as possible. Her needs and the care she requires are beyond the families abilities. It’s the right choice, but a painful choice. It’s been a long, hard road; and it will get harder before the destination is reached.

So he’s on my mind today. My heart hurts for him and what today holds. He is a good son. He and his wife—oh, his wife; she is the most wonderful daughter-in-law—they have done everything possible; and still are, to meet this woman’s needs. I hope he doesn’t mind being the subject of these ramblings, but his ordeal is consuming my mind today.

In the Bible, in Proverbs 31 it speaks about “a woman of noble character”. I find myself paraphrasing it today and finding it a fitting description for my friend. He inspires me to be a better son to my own mother.

“A son of noble character who can find? He is worth far more than precious jewels.
His mother has full confidence in him and lacks nothing of value because of him.
He brings her good, not harm, all the days of her life.
He gets up while it is still dark; he provides for his family and portions for his mother’s servant girls.
He sets about his work vigorously; his arms are strong for his tasks.
He sees that his trading is profitable, and his lamp does not go out at night.
He opens his arms to the poor and extends his hands to the needy.
He is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
He is clothed with strength and dignity; he can laugh at the days to come.
He speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on his tongue.
He watches over the affairs of his household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
His children arise and call him blessed; his mother also, and she praises him: "Many women have good sons, but you surpass them all."
A man who fears the LORD is to be praised.

~ Father, help me to honor my parents and provide for them sacrificially as a way of honoring you. Amen.