As told by Edyta O.
"You have three months to live, tops!" proclaimed the doctor. This was the death sentence told to Lydia. Lydia knew she was older, a senior citizen, but to be told she only had three months to live was not easy for her mind, heart, or spirit. She would have to find a way to make peace with it. Lydia's family hired Edyta to care for and tend to her needs. Edyta was more than grateful to be Lydia's caretaker. She has a sweet spirit and a very gentle nature, but most importantly, Edyta knew the LORD.
When Edyta started, she was immediately told that Lydia only had three months to live. After a day of caring for Lydia, Edyta soon realized that some changes needed to occur. For starters, Lydia ate very little fresh food. She also got no exercise, sunlight, or fresh air, and ate a high- sodium TV dinner for dinner.
Edyta started to feed Lydia fresh fruits for breakfast and snacks. She was given a salad with every lunch and dinner loaded with fresh vegetables. Lydia also ate more wholesome foods like brown rice, oatmeal, multigrain bread, and spelt flour. She was enjoying eating so many delicious, freshly cooked foods that she barely noticed that she was on a total vegetarian diet: no dairy, poultry, or red meat. However, Lydia did notice that her Lasix medication was being decreased by her doctor. Her symptoms were improving. Besides the diet change, Edyta made time to walk with Lydia daily. At times, multiple walks a day. She would also take a digestive walk on occasion after lunch or dinner. Lydia was getting plenty of sunlight and fresh air. Another important change that took place was the environment. Instead of Lydia sitting in front of the television all day, the television remained off most of the daytime hours. Lydia was too busy walking in nature, listening to peaceful, soothing, Christian instrumental music. Edyta also read to Lydia. Soon the two ladies had daily devotions together before starting the day.
Three months turned into six months, which turned into a year, then another year, another year, and yet another year. Lydia lived four years past the three months she was given! Edyta took the job even though it was only three months and ended up working for four-plus years.
Call to Action
The Lord has given each of us the gift of life. “But ask the animals, and they will teach you...or speak to earth, and it will teach you...in His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind” (Job 12:7-10). We are responsible for the maintenance of our bodies.
Are you making wise choices with your health, filling your mind and body with the blessings the Lord has provided for us? This may seem like a daunting task, especially if you have unhealthy habits already formed. Luke 18:27 reminds us that “what is impossible with man is possible with God.” Ask Him, He will help you make healthy changes in your life.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
