Time to Learn New Dance Steps
“Your marriage is a dance.” Steve and I have heard this statement from two different counselors. “You must learn to dance with migraine,” they unanimously stated. However, dancing with migraine is annoying. It rudely keeps butting in and asking, “May I have this dance?” Unfortunately, migraine doesn’t take “No” for an answer. Painstakingly, Steve and I dance. It isn’t pretty, but we keep moving. However now… it’s time to learn new dance steps.
Dancing with Migraine
Steve is a twenty-five-year-migraine sufferer. In the process, he has learned to cope, and as a couple, we have adapted. But what happens when there’s a change, even when it’s a positive change? Suddenly, our dancing is off. Regrettably, we are tripping and stepping on each other’s toes.
God is Doing Something New
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not see it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert. Isaiah 43:19
Over the past year, there has been a breakthrough in Steve’s health, due to a new antidepressant therapy. The migraines are still present every other day; yet Steve’s associated depression is lifting.
This is amazing! I practically have a new husband! Unfortunately, I’ve gotten used to the husband I’ve known for the past twenty-five years. As a couple, we need to learn some new dance steps.
When Healing is Disruptive
In all honesty, Steve’s healing is disruptive. Although I am overjoyed that Steve’s depression is lifting, I feel the pinch of change. But why? Am I too set in my ways? Perhaps, I am not fully believing in God’s miraculous power. Am I afraid that Steve’s healing will be short-lived? Can I adjust to the new Steve?
It’s Time to Learn New Dance Steps
Marriage is a dance. Steve and I are attempting to gracefully and purposely flow to the rhythm of life. We work at being in sync with one another. When we are, the dance is beautifully intimate and brings joy and encouragement. However, what happens when suddenly the dance no longer works? We must not stop dancing. Rather, it’s time to learn new dance steps.
God Will Make a Way
Thankfully, God doesn’t bring something new without a way to proceed.
God will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert. Isaiah 43:19b
Listen to this hopeful New Year’s song based on the above verse.
https://youtu.be/XerYTe6acXU?si=GXLGyn0QMZco44eW
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for the improvement in Steve’s health! Now, as we learn new dance steps, please help Steve and I be patient and gracious with one another. Amen.
Questions to Consider:
- When has healing been disruptive in your life?
- Share a time when you had to learn new dance steps.
Colleen
Learning new steps is vital as the rhythm of life keeps changing. It’s not easy, but essential as with any new dance, the more we practice, the more our movements become automatic, and we can ease into the pleasure of just moving. We can close our eyes, listen to the music and become one with our bodies as we dance.
Maria Whitrock
What a beautiful word-picture Colleen, and thanks for the reminder that it takes practice! Thanks for sharing, my friend!
Janet Ault
This was really good. I honestly can’t remember a time when healing has caused problems for me. Possibly because I am single.
Maria Whitrock
Janet: Honestly, I have been thrown off by the idea as well. But the journey with chronic pain ebbs and flows. Thanks for reading and sharing!
karla larrabee
Beautiful!
Hey, I’d love to share a few actual line dance steps with you two!
So honest, and truthful and transparent!
Proud of you, love how you express yourself through your talented and gifted writings!
Maria Whitrock
Karla: That sounds fun to me, but I’m not sure I can convince Steve! Thanks for your ongoing support, encouragement, and friendship! 🥰