Difficult Seasons

Garage 10

I’ve been thinking about parking garages this week.

Sunday, the family gathered at First Colony Town Center for lunch.  After lunch, I went with my 84-year old dad to his car to get some documents, and ended up having to direct traffic to help him get backed out.

It’s a busy garage, with people coming and going and in a hurry to get parked and get on with what they’re doing.  Dad actually did a good job backing out and getting going.  But I couldn’t help but notice the impatience of the folks who had to wait for him to do it.  Frankly, I was a little angry with them.  My dad’s ability to drive himself is precious to him, as it is to the rest of us, and if he needs a few seconds more to maneuver out of his parking place, that seems a small price for the rest of us to pay.

On Monday, I parked in Garage 10 at M. D. Anderson.  It’s an even larger garage, with 12 stories plus roof parking, and each level holding hundreds of cars.  I parked on 11, an indication of how busy the hospital was.  I thought about the people who park there who are patients, many not feeling good, who must navigate getting to and from their vehicles, backing out, and going through the pay stations.

Sometimes in Garage 10 there will be a car driving slower than the rest of us want to go.  Wouldn’t it be good if I’d just think about that person and show grace?  They may be overwhelmed by being in such a big place, or they may not be feeling their best and just trying to get it done.  Other times, someone will have trouble getting their car to fit in a space.  Wouldn’t it be good if I just sat patiently and gave them time?  And sometimes, wouldn’t it be good if I’d stop and let someone back out when I see their brake lights come on?  Those moments could even be used for prayer.

Like the people I was angry with Sunday, I have some of what my dad calls “ME FIRST!” in me.  I’m working on it, trying to become more of a “You First” person.  It sure doesn’t come naturally, though.  But it’s part of the living-upside-down life that God calls us to.  And I know that Dad and others will be blessed if I can change. And if you will join me in trying.