The Hospital Harpist
Watching and Listening Intently for the God Glimmers in Times of Stress
I wasn’t sure what I would post in this Sunday slot but my hospital reflection reminded me of how well God cares for me in ways I do not expect. It is never a big monumental thing and could be easily missed if I wasn’t paying attention. I never doubt but that it is God giving me a glimmer of hope.
The Hospital Harpist
I had gone to the hospital floor lounge to make a phone call. Scott’s room and the lounge could not be any further from each other—a hall the length of a football field. On my way back, I saw someone—something—in his open doorway. As I got closer, I realized it was a woman with a harp and she was playing the harp for Scott. I slid in the door, thanked her, and asked if I could take a picture. She smiled a yes.
Once I had this treasure of a picture, I sat in the recliner and leaned back. I am sure I would have fallen asleep if nursing assistance alarms hadn’t kept sounding. But I did find the memory connected to harps.
While raising my children, a friend who was a combination of a mentor, colleague, spiritual guide, and surrogate mother provided the support I needed to navigate my life. Neither of us understood my struggles, but she cared deeply. One day, she went to Silver Dollar City with my family and was thrilled to find out that a harpist would be putting on a concert. Sharing this musical moment had a calming effect I did not expect.
As I leaned back in the hospital chair and listened to the harpist play, I felt my nervous system relax much like it did that day many years ago. I wondered if my friend, who passed away several years ago, had come to sit with me. I often feel my dad’s presence so I am not opposed to believing she was there with me. What I do know is that God knew what I needed and having a harpist show up in the hospital hallway was without a doubt, a God Glimmer.
And then she smiled behind her mask, waved goodbye, and was gone.
What a beautiful treasured glimmer. I love it when in the midst of challenges God beautifully meets us in a way that brings His peace and presence.
Praying for Scott for healing, for God to impart wisdom and clarity to the doctors and sustaining energy and peace for you.
When I was in the hospital for my first heart transplant, there was a harpist who would play for the patients. It was both lovely and surreal. I was too weak to sit up without assistance, but I raised the bed to get a better look at her, as if that would allow me to hear better. It is wonderful that they have volunteers to play for those who must be stuck in the hospital.