Grumpy the Gator

In Grumpy the Gator, a group of children playing encounter a grumpy alligator. The story teaches children to always keep a safe distance from animals in the wild, and to find an adult if they see an alligator.

Grumpy the Gator

Its Always A Story With The Hendersons

The Hospital Shirt…Finding Comfort

Have you ever paused to think of all the ways God sends comfort? Last week, after a strange reaction to an infusion for osteoporosis, I called the emergency number for the doctor office and was told to go the e.r. immediately. I didn’t have an allergic reaction. I had an “adverse” reaction to the infusion. No itchy throat or trouble breathing. My problems were extreme bone pain, nausea, fever, chills and muscles that kept contracting making my body feel like I had done 100 or more sit ups. Very strange feeling.

The infusion itself went well. The staff who assisted me provided information about the before, during and after components of an infusion. Being an almost 15 years breast cancer survivor and having dealt with chemotherapy and radiation all those years ago, I was a bit nervous. Stressful memories flooded my mind the moment the infusion was scheduled. I prayed and asked God to give me comfort. He answered. He always answers in one way or another. Days after making the appointment, I relaxed into my daily schedule and put the upcoming appointment in the back of my thoughts.

The day of the infusion was normal. No problems. I didn’t have the “reaction” until 1:00 a.m. That was when my body starting showing a dislike for the medicine that had entered my body.

After speaking with the medical staff on call and letting Alan know we needed to get ready and head to the emergency room, I slowly walked to the bedroom closet to find clothes so I could change from my pajamas to “day” clothes. Looking at the shirts hanging on the rack, my eyes quickly went to one shirt. Grabbing the maroon colored short-sleeved t-shirt and a pair of jeans, I dressed for the car ride to the hospital.

Alan opened the car door for me, helped me into the car and turned on the seat warmer. I closed my eyes and prayed as we rode through the dark of the night to arrive at the hospital.

On this ride to the e.r., I began thinking of the shirt I picked to wear. Something comfortable and easy to remove if a hospital gown was needed. Short sleeves would be easy for blood pressure cuff.

I started to wonder. “Why do I always pick this same shirt to wear to the emergency room or for stressful medical tests?” I have noticed a pattern in what I choose to wear for those possibly worrisome visits. I always choose the maroon shirt.

A calm came over my body and I remembered.

I prayed and asked God to give me peace and calm. I was afraid. He would be the answer to my fears. He would cover me with peace only He can provide.

Looking down at my maroon t-shirt, I smiled. God gave me comfort through an old shirt. God was reminding me that His love and peace are covering me in all situations. No matter the outcome, He covers me from head to toe. This favorite shirt of mine was one way God was covering me. No need for worry.

The hospital staff provided great care and soon we were on our way back home. I feel much better and have been busy with family and church activities.

Each time I see this old shirt hanging on the rack in my closet, I smile. One of these days, that shirt will wear out and I will find another one to wear to the hospital and doctor appointments.

I am thankful God’s love never gives out. God’s love never changes. He will provide comfort and peace in many ways, even in an old shirt.

How was God provided peace and comfort to you lately? Share with us. Your story may encourage others.

Have a blessed day,
Mimi

60 Comments
  • Karen
    Posted at 14:27h, 16 December Reply

    So glad you’re feeling better, Mimi. So nice that your shirt brings you comfort during those stressful times. Merry Christmas!❤️😘

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 15:13h, 16 December Reply

      Thank you. I am feeling better. I love how God brings comfort in many ways. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Unmasking the Mess
    Posted at 14:58h, 16 December Reply

    Thankful that you are feeling better!!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 15:13h, 16 December Reply

      Thank you. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Jessica Brodie
    Posted at 15:10h, 16 December Reply

    Thankful to hear you are feeling much better! It’s scary when our bodies show such vulnerability, but it’s such a great lesson in how to cling to the Lord. God bless you!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 15:14h, 16 December Reply

      Amen. Clinging to the Lord. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • Kimberly Rose Johnson
    Posted at 15:13h, 16 December Reply

    I love how He does those kind of things for us! I’m glad you are feeling better and they were able to help you.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 15:14h, 16 December Reply

      God is amazing with all the special ways He shows His love for us. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • michellekaderlywelsh
    Posted at 15:37h, 16 December Reply

    I am so glad that you are feeling better! Those adverse reactions are scary. God comforts us in such simple ways sometimes, which just goes to show how the little things really do matter! The Lord often comforts me through kind words or a hug from someone when I start to spiral into worry. Merry Christmas!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 16:50h, 16 December Reply

      I agree. Hugs and kind words truly help. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Bettie G
    Posted at 15:40h, 16 December Reply

    Oh, I am so thankful that the Lord brought you such comfort and peace in that scary situation! And I’m so thankful that the Drs were able to help your body find relief! What a precious comfort and strength we find in our dear Jesus. Blessings and hugs to you dear Melissa!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 16:51h, 16 December Reply

      God truly provides comfort and strength. Even if I can’t take that medicine again, the Lord will help the doctors find the correct medicine. Blessings and hugs to you, too, dear friend. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Jacquie A. Bradford
    Posted at 15:56h, 16 December Reply

    I’m amazed at the simplicity of the supernatural; a maroon t-shirt I love this! I am thankful you’re back to to the things of this wonderful life!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 16:52h, 16 December Reply

      I love how God uses the simplest of things, including an old shirt, to provide comfort. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • Gail Johnson
    Posted at 16:06h, 16 December Reply

    Thankful you are better, Melissa! Hugs!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 16:53h, 16 December Reply

      Thank you Gail. I feel much better. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Barb Ready
    Posted at 16:37h, 16 December Reply

    Glad you are ok! Love God’s silly little blessings. Love it more when we recognize it! Merry Christmas, Melissa!!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 16:53h, 16 December Reply

      I love how God uses anything to bring blessings, even an old shirt. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • Jill Weatherholt
    Posted at 18:41h, 16 December Reply

    Oh Melissa, I’m so relieved you’re okay. God is good! I loved reading about your special shirt. I have one too…it’s my purple Crohn’s Disease sweatshirt. I purchased through their foundation. Whenever I wear it, I feel as though God’s arms are around me. I have my infusion this Thursday. We never know how are body will react, do we? Merry Christmas!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 20:11h, 16 December Reply

      God is so amazing. He even gives us special shirts to remind us of His protection. I am praying your infusion goes well.Thinking of you and sending love and hugs. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Janet from FL
    Posted at 20:12h, 16 December Reply

    God always finds a way to let us know He is right there with us! I too have a comfort item that I got when I was going through chemo and radiation, a soft blue blanket. I wrap up in it when I get home after a stressful medical visit. It always relaxes me and reminds me that I will get through this too. I am supposed to get osteoporosis treatment in January. I am opting for the shot, instead of the infusion. I hope I can avoid a bad reaction like you got. What did the ER do for you to help?

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 20:22h, 16 December Reply

      Janet, I am praying all goes well with your infusion. Since it wasn’t an allergic reaction, the e.r. gave meds to give me comfort. Nausea medicine and pain medicine. Those worked. Praise the Lord! 🙂 Merry Christmas!

      • mimionlife
        Posted at 20:23h, 16 December Reply

        I meant to type your “shot”. 🙂 Praying all goes well.

  • bethbingaman
    Posted at 21:47h, 16 December Reply

    I’m a jeans and sweatshirt woman myself! Glad He gave you that assurance at a scary time.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 23:07h, 16 December Reply

      Thank you Beth. I am thankful for His assurance. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • June Foster
    Posted at 23:48h, 16 December Reply

    I actually love this color. It almost looks like the one you’re wearing in the picture.

    I’m sorry, I didn’t know you had to go to the ER but I’m so glad you’re okay now. It must’ve been scary but your reliance on the Lord was so encouraging. Thank you for the post.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 00:22h, 17 December Reply

      I just realized that I must really like that color. haha! Several shirts in my closet are maroon. haha! Yes, I am feeling much better dear friend. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • S. A. Foster
    Posted at 02:15h, 17 December Reply

    Glad you are feeling better! Your story about the shirt is a sweet reminder that God is always with us and makes His presence known in a variety of ways.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 12:39h, 17 December Reply

      Thank you. Yes, God is always with us and He shows His love in many ways. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • J.D. Wininger (@JD_Wininger)
    Posted at 09:49h, 17 December Reply

    One of my most treasured “comfort and grace” items (as I call them) is a bulky, large print Bible that belonged to my little brother Paul. He’s awaiting me in heaven, but after his tragic death, his Bible was the one remembrance of him I wanted most. Not because I had purchased it for him, or it was large print and easier to read than my Scofield study Bible, but because of his faith. You see, my brother Paul was legally blind and could barely read or write because of disabilities from birth and damage from epilepsy. And while Paul listened intently to messages and to the Bible on cassette tapes and later CDs I would give him, he always carried that big Bible with him. He knew the power of God’s word in his life. Today, I’ve loaned it to my dad when I returned him to live with his eldest son, with the understanding that it comes back to me when it’s time. For now, Daddy carries it to his church services every Sunday (we helped him get started back in church when he lived with Diane and I here in TX). I miss it, but Paulie and I both know it’s power is still with me; just like my buddy “Stretch” is. God’s blessings and Merry CHRISTmas dear lady. Am so glad you’re feeling better.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 12:43h, 17 December Reply

      Thank you dear J.D. Your story brings tears to my eyes. I can picture the treasured Bible. How special for your brother Paul and now your Daddy to have the Bible. Precious. God is wonderful with all the ways He provides comfort. Merry Christmas dear friend. 🙂

  • Yvonne
    Posted at 13:40h, 17 December Reply

    I am so sorry you had problems after the infusion and I hope they can find an alternative but I love your thoughts on the shirt. God provides in so many wonderful ways that we could easily miss if not careful.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 18:18h, 17 December Reply

      Thank you Yvonne. Yes, I am thankful God provides in many wonderful ways. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Emily Saxe | To Unearth
    Posted at 14:02h, 17 December Reply

    I’m so glad to hear this was taken care of and you’re feeling better, Melissa! God recently showed me comfort just yesterday as I wondered about what the next months would hold depending on the results of tests of my own. The tests showed life would carry on as normal for us, so I’m thankful God reminded me that even if our lives were about to change, He would still be in control no matter what!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 18:19h, 17 December Reply

      I am thankful your test results were good. Yes, God is with us when all is well and He is with us when life is filled with change. He is in control. Amen. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Savoring Sixty and Beyond
    Posted at 15:13h, 17 December Reply

    I marvel at the way you always find God in everything! So inspiring!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 18:20h, 17 December Reply

      Thank you. There is comfort in finding God in the every day moments in life. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • Elizabeth Whitley
    Posted at 16:15h, 17 December Reply

    So glad that you are feeling better! I know situations like that can be scary. Thank you for this beautiful reminder that God covers us with his peace and love!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 18:20h, 17 December Reply

      You are welcome. Yes, He covers us at all times. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Candice Brown
    Posted at 01:20h, 18 December Reply

    Scary; I’m glad you’re ok. I never have time fyi choose an outfit when I’m having an allergic reactions but I memorized psalm 91 to comfort me when I have to go to the hospital.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 14:18h, 18 December Reply

      Thank you for the reminder to memorize His Word. His Word will bring comfort. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Lisa Q
    Posted at 18:03h, 18 December Reply

    I had a special neck pillow once… It was the pillow I used birthing my babies. I placed it under my neck for added comfort, and that pillow soon became symbolic of comfort during difficult challenges. So, I relate to your maroon shirt! I do think God uses many things to reach us and communicate his presence to us. We just have to be open to seeing those things. Glad you’re feeling better! May God bless your health.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 23:20h, 18 December Reply

      Thank you. Yes, I am feeling better. Not 100% yet but much better. I love how you had the pillow. Amazing how God uses various things to bring comfort. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Jennifer King
    Posted at 18:03h, 19 December Reply

    What a sweet moment between you and the Lord. Sometimes the simplest things speak the loudest, like the comfort of familiar shirt.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 21:20h, 19 December Reply

      Yes, sometimes the simplest things speak the loudest. You are correct. 🙂 Amazing how God uses the simplest things to give comfort to us. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Melissa McLaughlin
    Posted at 20:00h, 19 December Reply

    Wow. This is a beautiful story of how God has been with you through the valleys. Thank you for sharing this and how you saw God’s hand in it. This also speaks to your faith and the ways you seek His presence. I’m lifting you in prayer. May God continue to heal and strengthen you. And most of all, cover you in His peace and love.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 21:19h, 19 December Reply

      Thank you Melissa. His love covers us in all situations. 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  • debwilson2
    Posted at 03:59h, 21 December Reply

    Melissa, I’m thankful you are doing well. I love how God used a familiar shirt to cover you in His peace. How sweet. You have a wonderful gift of being able to see Him in the ordinary. Blessings to you.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 13:10h, 21 December Reply

      Thank you. I appreciate your kind words and your friendship. Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • Vickie @Vickie s Kitchen and Garden
    Posted at 17:45h, 22 December Reply

    I’m so sorry about your reaction Melissa. Its like you knew that shirt would be there as well as God’s presence. I hope your feeling better now and you have a Merry Christmas.

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 17:51h, 22 December Reply

      Thank you Vickie. I will see the doctor tomorrow about continuing bone pain that has occurred since the infusion. I am comforted by God’s presence. Have a Merry Christmas! 🙂

  • ordinarilyextraordinarymom
    Posted at 15:00h, 23 December Reply

    So glad God sends us exactly what we need when we are stressing to the max. Hope everything went well and your holidays are wonderful ❤️

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 14:28h, 27 December Reply

      Merry Christmas! All is well here. 🙂 Blessings to you and your family.

  • Lynn J Simpson
    Posted at 21:34h, 23 December Reply

    TI’m so glad God clothed you in His peace and comfort during that anxious time. Have a wonder Merry Christmas Melissa!

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 14:29h, 27 December Reply

      Merry Christmas! God is wonderful. He comforts us and He loves us. Have a blessed day! 🙂

  • My Brother's Bible - J.D. Wininger, Christian Author
    Posted at 13:17h, 01 January Reply

    […] shirt and how it brought her comfort and peace. After reading Mrs. Melissa Henderson’s post (https://melissaghenderson.com/2019/12/16/the-hospital-shirt-finding-comfort/), I thought about things that bring me […]

    • mimionlife
      Posted at 19:40h, 01 January Reply

      Thank you J.D. May God bless you and your family in every moment. Happy New Year!!

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