As I stood there, cold and tired, I could feel the frustration rising in my body. I wanted to jump up and down and scream at the top of my lungs. Since I was in public and didn’t want to totally humiliate my son, I refrained.
We had arrived at the pier a little before seven in the morning. My son was going to run his first half marathon with two friends from school. I was excited for him and thrilled I could be there to cheer him on! We parked in the grassy field as directed and were instantly joined by millions of giant mosquitoes. It’s not unusual to see a lot of mosquitoes where we live, especially considering all of the rain we’ve been having, but I was still surprised by their number and size. I was kicking myself as I realized I forgot to bring the bug spray. I hoped that someone at the race would have mercy on us and share some.
We sat in the car for a few minutes bracing ourselves for what was about to happen. We took a deep breath and opened the doors. Immediately, we were swarmed by the insects. We quickly walked toward the gathering area for the runners, hoping that getting out of the grass would help. It didn’t. Fortunately, runners are a friendly group and we found a wonderful woman willing to share her bug spray.
My son met up with his friends and they made their way to the starting line about the time it started to mist. But I was prepared for this part; I wore a rain jacket and had my big umbrella.
I watched the start of the race and walked to the first area to cheer them on. That’s when it started to rain. And do you know what mosquitoes do when it starts to rain? They head for cover under umbrellas. I couldn’t believe it. Hundreds were swarming all over my face and hands. Thankfully, I found another gracious person who shared some of his spray with me. This time I not only sprayed myself, but doused the underside of my umbrella. The mosquitoes were undeterred.
The other spectators and I were quite a sight. We stood there huddled under umbrellas swatting the determined insects while trying to stay dry. We were not successful with either endeavor. We tried to encourage each other that at least we weren’t the ones running in the pouring rain and getting eaten. After awhile, though, the rain, wind, and constant biting started to get annoying.
All of it seemed worthwhile as my son crossed the finish line. He was the first on his team and in the top five finishers. It was great to see him so proud of his accomplishment.
Unfortunately, as we waited for the awards ceremony, the rain continued and the wind picked up. By now, the lower half of my body was wet and cold, and the mosquitoes were still out for blood. I tried to just enjoy the boys and their excitement for a well run race, but I was struggling. After standing in the pouring rain and fighting insects for over three hours, my spirits began to fall and my frustration began to rise. That’s when I began throwing the temper tantrum in my head.
I started crying out to God to still the storm and kill the bugs. I was cold, tired, and weary of being bitten and pelted with rain. I was quickly reaching my limit. I wanted relief!
As I continued my complaining rant to God, I found myself moving from the frustrations of weather and insects to the weariness of life.
It’s a tough season right now. Responsibilities seem to be pelting me from every direction, draining my energy. The four kids at home are feeling the weight of making decisions about their future while trying to balance responsibilities, relationships, and down time. It can create a lot of activity and emotion! Mix that together with dad being gone and you get a weary mom. A mom in need of relief.
Thankfully, that’s just what I got. After the awarding of medals and a nice, hot shower, we headed to Houston for the weekend. We saw a movie, had a great dinner, explored Space Center Houston, and played at a fountain. Thoughts of college admissions, college papers and tests, work, and responsibilities were put aside. It was wonderful! By the end, we were all laughing and running around playfully like little kids. It so refreshed my weary bones.
As I said goodbye to my husband and oldest daughter, I was sad, and yes I cried, but I felt so much better. The rain had stopped. The mosquitoes were gone. I had found relief.
So even though today is the start of another full week, I know it will be okay. I have renewed energy and a heart full of joy.
Besides, Thanksgiving break is only two weeks away…
