Now that we have celebrated the Fourth of July, we clearly are well into the summer season. Back in January when I had my hip replacement surgery I had hoped to be back to “normal” by now. However as you observe me still limping around, that has not happened. As I was progressing through physical therapy, I noticed increasing pain in my right knee (same side as hip replacement). When I saw my orthopedic surgeon in May he told me my hip had healed perfectly, but the pain was newly developed arthritis in the knee. Because of compensation for so long on the opposite leg, when I began walking normally again my right knee swelled with this new arthritis. He recommended further physical therapy.

Last week I was informed by Medicare that I had reached my cap for physical therapy this year! Hence I  will have to continue exercise on my own until I find some relief and some normal walking again! 

The best laid plans……as they say, we plan and God laughs!!!

Today’s gospel gives us a further perspective on God’s compassion however when we are suffering. He invites us to share our burdens with him. He uses the imagery of the yoke – that wood which binds the oxen together so they can share the burden of their tasks. God says His yoke is easy and if we allow Him to share our pain and suffering we will find comfort and rest. 

May these summer days bring refreshment and respite for us all.