One of my earliest memories is of Mom squeezing my hand three times and knowing that it meant “I love you!” It was like a secret code--and I knew how to crack it.
Over the years that code has occasionally been manifested in alternative ways. In college when Caroline and I had a thin wall dividing our bedrooms, our nightly routine involved knocks on the wall. Knock, knock….knock, knock, knock. “Good night. I love you!” If Caroline was in bed and too far away to knock, she’d shout her reply.
I shared the code with Marty around the time we got married, and since then it has become a part of our daily communication with each other. Again, we’ve adapted the code to us. It doesn’t need to be a hand squeeze—three pokes in the arm with a finger does just as well in conveying the meaning.
Over the past few days, I have felt an abundance of love. It’s like everyone I know is sending those three squeezes from where ever they are. The love and support I have received from everyone has been amazing! Thank you! Thank you for the prayers and the phone calls and hugs and tears—all of it. I have needed it and continue to need it.
As I’ve sat by Marty’s side I’ve attempted to pass everyone’s love on to him. I squeeze his hand many, many times—almost always in multiples of three. I cried tears of joy when he began giving me three squeezes back.
****************
It has been suggested that I might start a new, private blog where I post updates of Marty’s status and progress. Any thoughts?
11 comments:
Oh Sonnet I love you! I think of and pray for you and Marty continually. Although, I don't know how a private blog works I think it sounds like a pretty good idea.
Sonnet, I do not know what is going on but do know from reading this that there is some need so please know that I, too, am praying for you and Marty and am also sending love.
Thank you for this post, Sonnet. I come to your blog often during my day to check for any kind of news from you. Paul, Brit, and I love you guys and are constantly thinking of you all and praying for you all as well. Knowing only part of what you are dealing with and going thru, I haven't wanted to intrude but doe want so dearly to let you know that if there is ANY WAY that we can help, Paul and I are willing. *hugs* *hugs* *hugs* dani
Sonnet, I am so glad that you have been able to be surrounded by and supported by people who love you at this time. I know that there are many who can't be close to you physically, but still pray for the two of you, and think and worry about how you and Marty are faring. If it's something that wouldn't add stress to your life right now, I too think that a private blog sounds like a good idea.
Poke, poke, poke, squeeze, squeeze squeeze!
Sonnet, I think that will be so good. We love you so much and pray all day for you and Marty. I am so glad to have talked to you. Even if you can't get back to me I will check in with messages so we will seem a little closer. I hope the time for me to come is soon, but know the Lord will lead me to know what Marty needs. I cried when I read that he gave your hand three squeezes back. I love that
"secret code" and am so grateful for your love for eachother. We can get through this as a family. We are so glad and grateful to have you.
Hi Peanut~
I have been so worried, yet so relieved to hear that even though I am thousands of miles away and haven't been able to be there in person to squeeze your hand that you have an amazing network of family, friends and church family that are there to hold you through the stress, tears and joy.
Stay strong and continue making decisions with open eyes and ears and a heart full of love just as you have been doing-- and just remember that whatever you need or whatever you may be feeling I am here for you 110%.
Love,
Christina
Sonnet ryan and I love you very much. We want you to know that! Past circumstances have't made it easy for all of us to be together but know that we are with you in our hearts. No matter what life begins. We pray for you both all day long. My brother was given a gift when you married him. That gift was the greatest gift that can be given LOVE> Your love is deep and wide...thank you for giving him.
with all our love
jamie
I think some way of communciating would be good. through blog or your own personal website. People want to know what to pray. They alswo want to see that prayers are being answered
GOD is Good at all times
Know that I am thinking of you; my heart goes out to you and Marty, and you are in my prayers continuously. I agree that a private blog, which I know nothing about, or something, would be great if it would not be too much for you.
Love & Prayers x 3, Aunt Betty
I think Mom tawght that secret code to Mark and Mark taught the same code to me. A few months ago I taught the sqeeze hand code to Noah and I've never seen anything make Noah feel more special than knowing his very own "love code." Anyway, just wanted to say "sqeeze, sqeeze, sqeeze" to you and if there's anything you need--we're here for you!
Sonnet, I am trying not to call you everyday for updates. But ever since I left, I have been hungry for each bit of news. I would love for you to blog the info, if you have the time and disposition to. Still thinking and praying for you constantly. OOOXXX
Auntie says"
1st person!!!
Now you know who!
I have thought of you often and cried for both of you. Your news is wonderful. Marty will be stronger now! Of course I wonder why? That's not my affair. You are a WONDER!Yes, Marty is too but you are the backbone with many others behind you.
xxx
Post a Comment