Month: March 2015

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30 – Searching for Answers – Three Days Later


Randy and Jill had made it in from Michigan and were staying with Greg and Sandy. They would go together and sometimes split up as they made trips to the hospital to check on Tom and Ann. Ann was doing better and they thought she could be released that afternoon to go home. Tom was stabilized, the swelling around his brain had gone down and the doctors were trying to decide when to take him off the drugs that were keeping him in his coma. Joe and Sarah had spent the last two nights in their own bed’s and were finally feeling a little more rested. The morning after the accident Joe had let his boss know what had happened and asked if he could take some time off which they told him to take as long as he needed and to keep them informed about Tom. Pastor Dan had been stopping by the hospital every day and had told Sarah that she should take as much time as she needed and if she wanted to come in she should feel ok to just leave when ever she felt she needed too.

Greg, Sandy, Randy and Jill arrived at the hospital together around 9:00am. After getting an update from the nurses they stopped in to see Ann and told her the news that it looked like they might release her that afternoon if nothing changed and that they were making plans to take Tom off the drugs that were keeping him asleep. Ann’s excitement could be seen on her face as she asked did they make any comments about how he will react once he wakes up? Not much of anything outside of normal doctor talk but they are very optimistic that he will be ok. They did comment that the swelling has gone down rather quickly which is good. We just have to wait and see after he wakes up. We will know much more then. Randy and Jill left Ann’s room and made their way down to the ICU to check in on Tom and were met by Doctor Conrad coming out of Tom’s room. Good morning guys replied Dr. Conrad. We just took Tom off the drugs we were using to keep him sedated and we expect he will wake up in a few hours. If it is possible that you guys could stay with him it would be good for Tom should he wake up and see you with him. We will be checking him frequently but if you should notice any movement or change please let us know as soon as you see it. Any movement, if he opens his eyes or try’s to speak or anything let us know. We don’t know what Tom will be like but we need to allow him to wake up so we can better see his progress of recovery. We don’t anticipate any long lasting issues with his brain, but we won’t know until he comes around and wakes up and we give him a little time to stabilize. We expect he could be hurting quite a little because we need him awake so we are also holding off on other pain medication until he wakes up. Thanks for everything you are doing Doctor, replied Randy. We will definitely stay by his side and we will let you know if we see any change. The tears began to fill Jill’s eyes as she walked over to Tom’s bed and took hold of his hand. Tom we love you so much. Dear God please keep him safe. Randy put his arms around Jill’s shoulders and repeated he will be ok I know he will be ok.

After a short moment of silence, Jill looked at Randy and said you better go and tell everyone else what is happening. I think Ann needs to know that they have already taken Tom off the drugs. I will stay with Tom. Randy quickly headed back down the hall to find Greg and Sandy and stopped at Ann’s room and could see that they were with her along with Joe and Sarah who had just arrived. I have some news about Tom he announced to everyone. We just talked to the Doctor and they have taken Tom off the drugs that have kept him sleeping. They told us to expect that he would sleep for a while yet and that he very possibly could have considerable pain when he first wakes up but that this needed to be allowed so they could see the extent of his head injuries before they give him more medication for the pain. I am going back down with Jill and we are going to stay with him until he wakes up. Joe asked Randy if he could come and join them. Yes Joe, come down whenever you want. Sarah, you should come to if you want and we can keep Ann updated on Tom’s progress. Looking over at Greg and Sandy he added you guy come down anytime you want. You’ve been the greatest friends we could ever ask for then added; they said they have no idea how long it will take for Tom to wake up. We just have to wait.

Joe and Sarah joined Randy as they made their way down to Tom’s ICU room. They went in and joined Jill standing around Tom’s bed hoping and praying he would be alright. Joe and Sarah held each other’s hand and silently prayed that Tom would be alright. A tear ran down Sarah’s face as she looked at Tom. Jill noticed that Sarah was struggling a little and asked her to come and sit with her for a while. Sarah made her way around the bed and sat down with Tom’s mom and leaned her head on her shoulder. I know this is really rough on you but is there something else that’s bothering you Sarah, inquired Jill. Is there anything I can do to help? Oh it’s nothing. I just know how much Ann loves Tom and he just has to be ok. Ann told me she… Sarah stopped herself in the middle of the comment and quickly added that Ann just wants to get out and have everything normal again. She needs Tom to be ok. It wasn’t long and Greg and Sandy opened the door to check on Tom and Sarah took advantage of Ann being alone and told everyone that she was going back to be with Ann for a while.

As Sarah walked into Ann’s room she could see the tears in her eyes. Approaching the bed Sarah placing her hand on Ann’s arm and wiping a small tear from her own eye and continued by saying, I want to help you Ann but I don’t know what to do other than pray for you and Tom. Ann reached out and took Sarah’s hand and said; I have to find out. I agree Ann, but how will we do that. Just then the nurse walked in to check on Ann. I got an idea, commented Sarah. Nurse Connie, can we ask you a question. Sure, I will do my best to answer it if at all possible. Well it’s really personal but Ann has a feeling she just might be pregnant and she needs to know for sure. Is there any way she could find out? I can check her charts and see if anyone ran any test that would show this and if not we could run one. Ann quickly spoke up asking; could you please check as soon as possible? I really need to find out and I don’t want to tell my parents anything yet. I need to know what I am going to do if I am pregnant before I talk to anyone else. Sarah looked at Ann with an astonished look of confusion but a look of compassion still the same. Let me go and check your paperwork and I will be back as soon as possible. Sarah’s mind was running in overdrive but neither of them said a word as they waited for Nurse Connie to return. It was only a couple minutes and she walked back into the room with a smile on her face. Ann, your premonition is correct. According to your chart it does show that you are going to have a baby. Do you have any idea how far along you are? It can only be a few weeks answered Ann as her face filled with tears. Sarah took hold of her hand and leaned over to give her a gentle hug. The nurse could see they needed a little time alone so she quietly slipped out the door saying, I’ll come back in a few minutes. What am I going to do Sarah? It only happened once and I thought we were more than careful. I love Tom but I don’t even know if he… Ann’s mind slid into deep thought asking subconscious questions faster than any one of them could be answered. Sarah looked at Ann and said you know Tom loves you Ann and he will love the baby also. You know he loves you. But what if he doesn’t recover, what if he doesn’t remember or what if something happens and I lose him, questioned Ann? What will I do Sarah and another flood of tears rushed down her cheeks? Sarah reached over pulling a couple Kleenex from the box on Ann’s bed stand and handed them to Ann to help soak up the tears. Sarah smiled at Ann with a look of compassion and composure adding words of assurance that I think we need to take this a step at a time Ann. We need to see how Tom is after he regains consciousness. I don’t know if I am ready for this Sarah? I am so scared. Ann, I understand right now you don’t feel like you are ready for all this. But together we will get ready. I will always be here for you. You are strong and if you’re pregnant it must have been meant to be. Just then the door opened and Greg and Sandy walked back into the room.

You two must be on an emotional rollercoaster right now commented Ann’s mom as she could see that they were both in tears. I’m sorry mom. I just have too many emotions going on right now. Can you tell me anymore about Tom? Only that he is still sleeping. Jill told me they would let us know of any changes. Greg leaned over, kissed Ann on the forehead and told her that everything is going to be ok. We love you and Tom. We just need to have faith that everything will be alright. I think I will go down and check to see if they can give us a time you will be able to leave. And don’t worry, after we get you home we will bring you back as many times as you want to see Tom. Greg slipped out the door and made his way to the nurse’s station. Sarah told Ann she would be back in a few minutes and she made her way towards the door.

Sarah left the room and headed towards the waiting room but took a turn to the left and headed outside to get some fresh air. Finding a bench she sat down, leaned her head back and looked up at the tree above her where she spotted a mother bird feeding its baby’s. She started to smile but then let her mind begin to wonder what Ann meant when she said she didn’t know what she was going to do. They had always been friends, they had talked about so many things over the years, but this was not a topic they ever talked about. Sarah started to wonder what she would do if this ever happened to her. How would she handle it? Then she remembered what her mom had said to her a few days ago about being human and how emotions can somethings take over and things can happen. Maybe that’s what happened to Ann and Tom? Man, I got to be there for her. Dear God give me the compassion and love I need to support Ann. Help me be there for her. Give me the words when she asks questions. Oh God just be with Ann and heal Tom so they can be together. Sarah’s thoughts began to move so fast that she leaned over and placed her head in her hands and elbows on her knees and began to sob quietly letting time escape into the sky.

Sarah heard someone approaching so she got up and decided to head back towards Ann’s room when she spotted Joe coming from the opposite direction. It appeared that Joe had taken a walk to clear his head also. As they approached each other they both could feel a sense of peace as they put their arms around each other and embraced. Joe whispered in Sarah’s ear; it’s going to be ok. Tears again watered up in Sarah’s eyes and when Joe asked her what was bothering her she started to cry even more. Let’s go get a coffee and try to relax a little Joe proposed. Ok, replied Sarah. I have something I need to tell you in strict confidence. I really need your help. I don’t think I can deal with it… Deal with what Sarah? Sarah remained quiet for a few moments as they walked back towards the hospital entrance. Let’s find a place we can sit and talk by ourselves and I will tell you.

They made their way to the cafeteria and after they each got a hot cup of coffee they found a table in the corner where they could talk by themselves. Ok tell me what is going on Sarah. Joe, Ann’s pregnant. She just found out. She told me she doesn’t know what to do and she is so worried about Tom and I think she is thinking about… Sarah stopped and took a drink of coffee and Joe just looked at her as his mind was contemplating how he would feel if he found out that Sarah was going to have a baby. But that’s not going to happen, at least until after we are married. Joe’s mind hit warp speed as it hit him just how much he loved Sarah. Is she the one for me? Oh God you got to help me here. Sarah interrupted Joe thoughts as she finally said I think she may even be thinking about not having it. What do you mean Sarah? I am not sure Joe. I only know I need to be there for Ann but I don’t believe in abortion. What will I say if this is what she is thinking about? Just then Pastor Dan walked in and could see them sitting in the corner. After he got a coffee he walked over and asked if he could join them. For sure Pastor, have a seat. You two look like you have a lot on your mind. Oh Pastor, you have no idea replied Sarah.

“To be continued”

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29 – Searching for Answers – A Long Night Waiting


Greg and Sandy went down to Ann’s room just to check in again on their daughter. If she was awake they wanting to ask how she was doing and not just relying on what the doctors and nurses told them. It wasn’t that they didn’t trust them. They were looking for the comfort of hearing their daughter tell them it was going to be ok. Just as they were about to open the door a nurse walked out so they asked her for an update. Her vitals are good and she is in a nice sleep right now. Her body has been through a lot tonight and we have given her a light sedative which seems to be doing the trick. You might want to be quiet or even consider going home and coming back in the morning. Sleep is the best thing for her right now. They went in and could see she was sleeping so they quietly left and went back to the waiting room. Sarah looking up asked how she was doing and after a brief update they told Sarah that they were going back home and would be back early morning. Are you sure you want to stay Sarah? They told us that Ann would probably sleep all night now. Yes, I want to stay with Joe just in case we should get some news about Tom’s condition. I will call you if I think something is changing with either of them. Call me anytime day or night Sarah. We will, replied Joe and Sarah in unison. Ann’s mom gave a small waved goodbye as they left the room and headed down the hallway towards the parking lot. Joe got up and pulled two chairs and foot stools together. Joe looked at Sarah and told her he would be right back. He headed out to the nurses desk and returned in a couple of minutes with a couple of pillows and blankets. They snuggled up to each other but neither of them could fall asleep. After a few minutes passed Joe kissed Sarah on the forehead and she rolled her head up and returned the kiss only it was not on the forehead. After a short embrace they just looked at each other saying nothing. The exchange of smiles of concern answered the question that each was thinking about. Leaning back on their pillows they closed their eyes and a few minutes later they both drifted off into a deeply needed sleep that neither believed they would get that night.

Joe’s eyes popped open when he heard the door open. Sarah rolled over to see Ann’s mom walk in. Sorry to wake you guys but I couldn’t sleep so I decided to come back to the hospital. Were you two able to get much sleep at all? Sarah looked at the clock to see it was 6:15am. I guess we must have got some. Joe got up and walked to the window and stretched a little getting the kinks out then told Sarah he was going to check on Tom and Ann and would be back in a few minutes.

The door quietly closed behind Joe as he made his way down the hall towards the nurse’s station. The night nurse that was still on duty looked up and smiled then added you must be a pretty great friend to hang here all night. Can you give me an update on Tom and Ann, replied Joe? Well the best thing is Tom is resting and his vitals are stabilizing. Time is what he needs right now. Every hour he is stable is great progress and gives his body time to heal. It was pretty iffy last night when they brought him in. He was hurt pretty bad as you know. They lost him twice; once in the ambulance and once in the emergency room. It was only for a few moments but, that is always pretty stressful. Thank goodness we have some of the greatest paramedics and doctors working for us. They will keep him sedated until the swelling around his brain goes down and then only time will tell the final outcome. I can’t tell you more than that. Do you know when his parent’s will arrive? Sometime later this morning unless they have flight issues responded Joe. I promised them I would call them with an update before they boarded their airplane. Ann is doing pretty good the nurse added. She slept most of the night which is what she needed.  Joe’s mind was taking in everything the nurse had told him and as he started to turn to walk back to the waiting room he stopped long enough to say thanks for the update and for all that you guys are doing.

Joe reached for his cell phone and walked out the side door and dialed Tom’s Dad Randy to give him an update. Joe had not even heard the phone ring on the other end when he heard: Hi Joe, thanks for calling. How is Tom doing? They are telling us that he is resting well and that he needs this time to allow his body to heal up. Because of his head injury he has some swelling around his brain and that is why they have him in an induced coma which will keep the brain activity down until the swelling goes down. He is stable right now but it will be good when you both get here. I will call you back with any more information if anything changes. They are taking really good care of him here. Joe, what about Ann? She is doing pretty well other than a broken arm and a lot of bruises and she was able to sleep most of the night. Tom was the one that was hurt the worst. The car that hit them hit his side on the front left corner and then slide around and pushing his door in which is how he was hurt so bad. Ann appeared to have been buckled in but somehow her seatbelt was cut or just broke which allowed her to be ejected out what looked like the side window which must have been down. What the officers told us when they stopped by the hospital later last night was that she was really lucky because a pipe that was in the other car somehow flew out at impact and was lodged directly into where she would have sat. All I can say is the God was watching over them somehow. We have all been praying for them and Sarah and I will be here when you get to the hospital. Joe I can’t thank you enough. You are a great friend to Tom and we are just about to head to the airport and if anything happens call me back. I will, replied Joe. Travel safe and get here as soon as you can.

Joe headed back to the waiting room to find Sarah and Sandy drinking a coffee. I just talked to Tom’s dad. I gave them an update and they are headed to the Detroit Airport right now. Did you get an update on Ann, inquired Sarah? Yes she is just waking up and they want to check her over and then we can go in and see her. You want a coffee Joe asked Sandy? Joe smiled and said that would be great. The three of them just sat silently drinking their coffee when the nurse came in and said Ann would like to see them.

Ann’s mom got up and Sarah told her to go and that she and Joe would be along in a few minutes. Sandy smiled and headed out the door and down the hallway towards Ann’s room. As she walked in the door she could see Ann smile a little. How are you doing my beautiful daughter? I am hurting a little but they are giving me stuff to help with that replied Ann. Mom, I am so worried about Tom and the tears began to flow down her cheeks and Sandy took her hand, smiled and started to say I know and then the emotions let loose and they both cried for a while without saying anything. Sandy reached over and pulled a couple of Kleenex from the box on Ann’s bed stand offering one to Ann. Ann looked at her mom and said; Mom, I love Tom. They can’t let anything happen to him. I am so worried about him. Then Ann let her thoughts drift off into a world that had no words. Sandy just sat and held her hand. After a few minutes had passed Ann asked her mom if Sarah was still there? Yes, she and Joe stayed all night. Oh mom, I really need to talk to Sarah. Could you go and ask if she would… I will go get her right now. Mom, please just have Sarah come. I really need to talk to her. Tell Joe to give us a few minutes and then you guys come back. I really want you all here with me, I just need to see Sarah for a couple minutes.

Sandy could tell that Ann had something on her mind that she wanted to share with Sarah as she headed out the door to send Sarah in. As she walked into the waiting room she could see Sarah and Joe holding hands with their heads bowed as if they were both praying. They heard the door open and both looked up and Sarah quickly asked how Ann was doing. Well she looks a lot better this morning but she really wants to see you. Let’s go replied Joe. Well she asked if we would give her a little time with you Sarah before Joe and I come back. I can tell she has something on her mind and she really wants to talk to you Sarah about it. You better go see her Sarah. You and I will go down in a few minutes.

Sarah made her way down to Ann’s room and as she walked in she could see that Ann was crying. What’s wrong Ann. Oh Sarah, I really need to tell you something. I think I might… The tears were running so hard that all Sarah could do was hold Ann’s hand and cry with her. After a short while she looked at Sarah and said; I really need your help. What’s wrong Ann? Well….

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28 – Searching for Answers – The Hospital


Joe carefully leaned over Ann’s limp body placing his ear near her mouth and nose. He could tell she was breathing but her body was twisted in several directions with one arm under her back and the other lying above her head. Joe thought he could see Ann move a little and he quickly told her to just lie still until the paramedics arrived. She was trying to open her eyes when Sarah came running back from Joe’s car with the blanket she grabbed from the back seat after she called 911. The ambulance is on its way she shouted. Sarah opened the blanket up and they covered Ann up to keep her warm. Joe looked at Sarah saying; stay with her while I go check on Tom. As Joe stood up he could hear the ambulance sirens in a distance. He carefully approached Tom who was still leaning up against the steering wheel of the demolished car. He could see that the driver’s side was caved in pushing Tom towards the center of the front seat which was twisted up like one was folding over a piece of bread. His left arm was hanging out the broken out side window with a twisted wrist that looked like it had been bent at a ninety degree angle. Joe was slowly approaching Tom when he heard someone say something in a voice that sounded unstable and it wasn’t Tom that was trying to talk. He looked to his right and sitting on the ground next to the car’s back drivers side wheel was a man he didn’t know. It was then that he noticed the other car across the road sitting upside down in the ditch. Are you ok Joe quickly asked in a concerned but commanding voice? Joe had been so pre-occupied with Tom and Ann he forgot about the other car and anyone that might have been in it. Joe quickly looked down and just as he was asking if he was ok again, the man started saying; I am so sorry, I am so sorry, I am so sorry… Hey are you ok, Joe repeated? The Ambulance pulled up next to the accident and Joe quickly returned his attention to his best friend Tom who was still leaning against the steering wheel when he heard the paramedic tell him to move to the side so he could check Tom out. The other paramedic was with Sarah checking her vitals and looking for injuries. After a few preliminary checks the paramedic working on Tom slipped a neck brace around his neck and tipped Tom back in his seat and Joe could see that he was really hurt bad. His nose was twisted to one side, blood was coming from his left ear and his eyes were covered with blood that was still coming down from his forehead where there was a gash that looked to start at his left eye and cross over to his right ear leaving his scalp with a serious opening exposing part of his skull. A second ambulance had arrived along with a fire engine from the local fire house. The Fire Chief put a call in for a third ambulance when he realized he had at least three people injured. The man that had been sitting on the ground next to Tom’s smashed up car had been moved to the step of the first ambulance and was sitting with a blanket wrapped around him slowly muttering; I am sorry over and over. One of the firemen had check out the second vehicle in the ditch and couldn’t find anyone else. Quickly approaching the ambulance he double checked asking the injured man if he had anyone with him assuming he was the drive that hit Tom and Ann. After repeated tries, the man finally said; I was alone, I am sorry, I am sorry. The fire chief called for the jaws-of-life and they carefully extracting Tom from the car and before long they had their sirens blaring as they made their way to the hospital. Hurry up we’re losing him. That call of desperation to hurry from the paramedic that was working on Tom in the back left nothing to the driver’s interpretation as to how bad Tom was hurt. They pulled into the emergency entrance and the trauma team was waiting for them. Quickly pulling Tom’s stretcher from the ambulance they rushed him inside to the emergency room. The second ambulance had loaded Ann in it and arrived at the hospital shortly after Tom’s. The trauma team was already worked on Tom trying to see the extent of his injuries. The third ambulance had arrived at the accident site and was checking over the driver of the other car. The man had no major injuries except the paramedic knew he was suffering from shock because he kept shaking and continued saying over and over; I am sorry, I am sorry, I am sorry. It wasn’t long and they were heading to the Hospital.

A second police car had just arrived as the ambulance with Ann in it was departing and they quickly talked to Joe and Sarah asking if they had seen anything that would help them figure out what had happened. All Joe could do was point at the car in the ditch and said that car came out of nowhere and hit Tom’s car in the side. Sir, I really need to get to the hospital Joe replied with a bit of urgency in his voice. Sarah was crying and the officer could tell he needed to let them go. The officer asked Joe if he was able to drive. Yes I am ok, replied Joe. The officer told them to go and they would come by the hospital after they finished up if they had any other questions. Drive carefully guys, replied one of the officers and we hope your friends are going to be alright. Joe and Sarah ran back to their car and quickly headed towards the hospital when Sarah’s phone rang. It was Pastor Dan calling. She quickly hit the answer button and as she was crying she just said; can you meet us at the hospital. There has been a terrible accident. Tom and Ann were broadsided. I’m on my way, I will meet you there replied Pastor Dan as he jumped from his chair, grabbed his keys and headed to his car.

It wasn’t long and Joe and Sarah ran into the emergency room and were met by a nurse. They just brought our friends here and they are hurt really bad. Where are they? Can you help us? Come on you two, slow down a little. Come over here and sit down and I will do my best to help you. The guy that came in is in emergency and they are working on him as we speak. The girl is still being checked out but looks like she is in better shape and we should know more in a little while. Just then Pastor Dan walked through the doors and the nurse looked up and smiled saying I am glad you’re here Pastor. Can you help these two while I check to see how their friends are doing? Yes, go check and please let us know any news as soon as you have some. Just then the emergency room doors opened and the driver of the other car was wheeled in. Other than a blood on his shirt from what looked like a bloody noise, he looked like he would be ok. He spotted Joe and Sarah and he quickly looked back up at the ceiling as they wheeled him past them taking him into emergency to be checked out completely.

After what seemed like hours but was really only minutes, the nurse returned and smiled saying; I have some good news. Your friend the young girl is going to be ok. What did you say her name is? Ann, Sarah quickly replied. It appears Ann has a broken arm and a pretty big bump on the head but should have a full recovery. We will know for sure by morning. What about Tom replied Joe before the nurse had a chance to say anything else. Well it is still too early to know but he is hurt pretty bad and the doctors are doing everything they can to stabilize him. We should know more in another hour or so. I will keep you updated as I learn more. When can I see Ann replied Sarah with an anxious look on her face? Another nurse behind the desk replied; I have called her parents and they are on their way. Are you family Sarah? Ann is a really good friend and we were together tonight and were following them when this all happened, replied Sarah. Well she is still pretty groggy and needs to rest and the hospital rules make us wait for the parents or family to arrive replied the first nurse. Pastor Dan looked at Joe and could see the terror on his face and the tears were flowing down Sarah’s cheeks. I would like to pray right now that God will be with the doctors and nurses and Tom and Ann as they work on them. Will you join me? Joe reached out his hand and took Sarah’s and Pastor Dan was about to complete the circle when the nurse joined in taking hold of the hand of Pastor Dan and Joe and he began to pray. Lord, please be with the Tom and Ann, be with the doctors and guide their hands as they work to put these precious bodies back together again. Lord we put them in your hands. Watch over them and give them strength and allow their bodies to heal. Why these things happen we never understand, but please work your will and keep Tom and Ann safe. Keep them under your wing and heal their bodies. Also please be with Joe and Sarah and give them strength as they support their friends through this crisis. We ask this all in Jesus name, amen. Joe looked up at Pastor Dan as the tears were starting to flow. Tom is my best friend, he was just starting to think about God and I am not sure but I don’t think he has ever accepted Jesus or God. Oh please pray that he will have time. Please pray that he will recover and have time. I will Joe, replied Pastor Dan. Sarah wiped her tears from her cheeks with her hand and put her arm around Joe. Joe pulled her close as they both just stood in shock of what happened to their friends.

Pastor Dan asked if Joe and Sarah would like to get a soda or something while they waited to hear more from the nurses. Maybe that would be good, replied Joe. They made their way to the waiting room and were sitting quietly when Ann’s parents walked in the door. Sarah jumped up and ran over to Ann’s mom Sandy, throwing her arms around her neck as the tears started to flow again. Ann’s dad Greg just stood silent and her mom looked at Sarah and asked; do you know what happened? All we know is that they were in a car accident. They told us Ann is going to be ok and we should be able to see her in a little while after they are finished checking her over completely. But Tom is pretty serious and they can’t tell us anything right now. I called Randy and Jill, Tom’s mom and dad, to let them know about the accident but they live back in Michigan so they can’t get here until late tomorrow morning. I spoke to them on the way to the hospital and promised I would call them with any details as soon as I heard them. Sarah looked over at Joe and said maybe you can tell them better than I can. Well, all I can tell you is that we had been together at a meeting at church and we were going to go to the pub to talk a little about what we had learned and on the way they were broadsided. Ann ended up on the ground outside the car and Tom had to be extracted by the jaw-of-life when the fire department arrived. It all happened so fast. Just then the nurse walked in the door and asked for Ann’s mom and dad. She wants to see you. It wasn’t long and Ann’s mom Sandy walked back in the waiting room and told Sarah that Ann want to see her and Joe. Pastor, please come too. We can only stay with her for a few minutes but she really wants to see both of you.

They walked into the area where Ann was lying on a bed in emergency and Sarah looking over at her started to cry. Ann motioned for her to come over close. Sarah took Ann’s hand, smiled and asked; how are you doing. Well I think I am doing better than Tom but not that great either replied Ann. Can you tell me any more about how Tom is? All they will tell me is that the doctors are still working on him. All I remember is looking up at him in the car and seeing the headlights of another car as it hit us. We had just told each other how much we loved each other and then boom. The next thing I remember is that I was in an ambulance on my way to the hospital and I don’t remember much of that either. I am so scared and worried about Tom. Joe looked at Ann and quickly said; I will go and check again and be right back. Sarah was still holding Ann’s hand when Joe returned a couple minutes later. They tell me they are getting him stabilized. He has several broken ribs, a broken left arm and a serious head injury. He is sedated right now but what I picked up on was that they call it an induced coma so he will have time for some of the swelling to go down in and around his brain. They told me we just have to wait. Time is what’s needed. They said we should know more in the next days. Pastor Dan walked over to Ann and taking her hand he again prayed for Tom and Ann’s safe recovery. Greg and Sandy was thanking Pastor Dan just as the nurse came back in and told them they needed to let Ann rest for a while. Ann’s eyes were drifting closed so they all told Ann they would be close if she needed them as they made their way back to the waiting room.

Sandy told Joe she was going to give Tom’s mom and dad another call. We know them and I want them to know we are here with him. She stepped out and called Randy and Jill, Tom’s parents, and after giving them the best update she could, she told them they would be there when they got in tomorrow and would keep them informed of any changes. Greg can pick you at the airport if you would like and you can stay at our place also. She was just hanging up when she looked up and saw Carl and June walk in. She motioned for them to follow her and they made their way to the waiting room. When Sarah saw her mom she lost it as the tears started to flow and June put her arms around her trying to comfort her. Carl walked over to Joe putting his hand on his shoulder and no words needed to be said.

“To be continued”

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27 – Searcing for Answers – Dr. Bob Meets the Gang


Sarah rolled over and put her face in her pillow as she heard her mother give her a shout to come down for dinner. After a couple minutes her dad stuck his head around the corner of her door saying; are you going to join us? Sarah tipped her head a little, smiled then added; I’ll be right down.

June had pealed some potato’s and sliced them into home fries and had put them along with some wings on the grill and had just finished tossing the wings with hot sauce when Sarah walked around the corner commenting; smells good, mom. What would you like to drink Sarah, rattled out from behind the refrigerator door as Carl grabbed a large bottle of raspberry lemonade that was sitting on the door shelve? A coke would be great dad. Before long the wings were gone and Carl was finishing up the last of the fries that were in the bowl. Sarah noticed her mom had been a little quiet during dinner and asked her what she had on her mind. Mom, I can see those wheels turning in your head so you must be thinking about something important. Sarah’s mom looked at her, smiled as she said; I didn’t think it was that obvious. It’s nothing more than a parents concern for their child, responded June. Come on mom just tell me what’s bothering you. Well it’s easy to see that you and Joe are getting pretty serious about each other. A slight blush came over Sarah’s face as she replied; yes we are mom. He is really special and I am not sure where it will lead but we both want to find out. Well I know I don’t have to tell you this, but be careful just how much you two decide to find out. Oh mom, don’t worry about that. Sarah, we really like Joe and we enjoy having him around but you two are only human and… Sarah quickly jumped in saying; Mom, Joe and I have talked about it and how important it is too wait. We promised each other… well you know what I mean, until we were… Sarah stopped short of saying until we are married. June smiled a big smile at Sarah and nothing else needed to be said.

Sarah got up and started picking up the dishes when she looked up at the clock and it was already 6:15pm. Oh no, I’m not ready and Joe will be here in 15 minutes. Mom, can I… Oh just go get ready Sarah. I will clean things up. Thanks mom, you’re the greatest. Are you guys going to the special meeting at the church with Dr. Bob tonight replied Carl. We sure are Dad. Joe even wants to get there early enough to talk to Pastor Dan before everyone shows up. He wants to set an appointment with him so they can talk about some of the things that Joe has been trying to figure out. I told him that Pastor would be a great listener and he would have some of the answers and would help him find the rest. Good advice Sarah. I always enjoy talking to him and even if he is quite a bit younger than I am, he knows how to listen and has some really great responses and insight. If he doesn’t know the answers, he will tell you he doesn’t. He is always challenging me to dig deeper and when I get back with him to tell him what I found, I find that he also was digging into the question. He really takes you serious and is committed to helping everyone. You’re right dad. He is the same at work. He might challenge me but never more than he would challenge himself.

Sarah quickly changed and was working her hair over a little when the doorbell rang. Tell Joe I will be right down. Carl opened the door and looking at Joe he said; women, they just are never quite ready on time. Sarah will be right… Hi Joe, sorry I’m a little late as she smiled that smile that did nothing but make Joe’s heart skip a beat. Have fun you two replied Carl as he walked back towards the kitchen to help June finish up dished. Joe looked at Sarah offering up; we better get going or we won’t have enough time to talk to Pastor Dan before the meeting gets started. They headed hand in hand to Joe’s car and before long they were pulling into the parking lot of the church. They were early as they had planned and only Pastor Dan’s car was sitting there. Quickly getting out of the car, Sarah reached out for Joe’s hand. They made their way to the side door of the church and when Joe grabbed the door knob and at the same time looked at Sarah gave her a smile and that was when the embrace began. It wasn’t long and they could hear Pastor Dan approaching the door so they cooled it just as the Pastor came into view. You two are a little early aren’t you was the reply along with a slight smirk? Well not really Pastor, replied Sarah. Joe wanted to talk to you before the meeting got started if that’s ok? Anytime, you know my door is always open. What’s on your mind Joe? Well I don’t know where to start, and we probably don’t have enough time right now, so maybe we can set an appointment where we could have an hour or two. Well I’m pretty open tomorrow. When do you get out of work? Maybe we could get together tomorrow afternoon. I get out at 3:30 and could be her by 3:45 if that would work. It’s a plan Joe. Any hint about what you have on your mind?

Well as you know I am new at being a believer in God. I accepted Jesus and I know he has forgiven me for all the stupid things I have done wrong. I knew I was different the moment I asked Jesus into my heart. Something just happened. I can’t really explain it very well. Kind of like when you feel heat hit you when you have been cold. I have some questions about the trinity and I want to tell you about these dreams I have had. Ok, you have me intrigued Joe. Do you believe that God can give us dreams when he is trying to tell us something Pastor Dan? I sure do! I’ve had a couple over the years that were… well let’s just say they were mind grabbers. Sarah jumped in saying; you won’t believe this but Joe and I each had a dream today while we were together. We were resting in the backyard and I guess we both fell asleep and the next thing we knew Joe was on the ground and I was looking at him wondering what had happened. He started to tell me he had another dream and that is when we discovered we had almost exactly the same dream. Now that’s… Hi Joe came from the back of the church as Tom and Ann walked in. I’ll tell you the rest of the story tomorrow afternoon Pastor, replied Joe. Sarah and Joe turned and made their way towards Tom and Ann just as the door opened and in walked Paul and Carol. Before long the rest of the gang showed up along with at least twenty other people that Sarah knew. Ann walked over to Sarah and said; Tom is really asking a lot of questions. I am not sure what is really on his mind but he is really on edge and I am not sure what he will ask tonight. Better tell Joe to be prepared. Oh, don’t worry Ann, Dr. Bob has heard it all and I am sure he can handle Tom just fine if he needs too, but I will tell Joe what you said. Just as Sarah was about to talk to Joe, Tom walked up to him and struck up a conversation. It wasn’t long and Dr. Bob walked in and Pastor Dan announced that they would like to get started. Pastor Dan told everyone he would like to open the meeting with a prayer as he offered up; Dear God we are grateful for everything you have created and we ask that you help each of us to open our minds to what Dr. Bob has to speak to us about tonight. We ask this in Jesus name, amen. Well take it away Dr. Bob.

Hi everyone. As you know my name is Bob and I am happy to join you again tonight and look forward to a great discussion. Please feel free to ask anything you have on your mind. If I can’t answer it we will take a note and find an answer and get it back to you as soon as possible. Pastor Dan, maybe you could take some notes so we don’t miss any questions and if you have one please make sure you give us your name and email or something before you leave so we can get back to you.

In the last meeting we talked a lot about creation and evolution. Many of you expressed an interest in digging a little deeper. Some of you asked how the effects of Noah’s flood could play a role in today’s evolutionary theories. I have prepared a couple slides that should help us. Pastor Dan hit the button on the projector and the first slide showing the Grand Canyon appeared on the wall. When you look at the Grand Canyon you see how deep and wide it is and how its walls look to be layered with different types of rock and soil. These layers show little to no signs of rocks being bent in different directions like you might see if you explore how the mountains appear to have been formed. So for the walls of the Grand Canyon to be formed by the earth shoving them upward this does not look like it would have happened this way. If you really observe the height of the walls you will find that some of the walls are higher than others. Actually the walls of the canyon located towards the upper end rise up to the highest height and then as you continue they back down to a lower level at the far end of the canyon. So the height of the walls where the canyon originates from is lower than the walls downstream. One might say that for the canyon to be formed by water it would have needed to flow uphill in order to get started and we all know that won’t work. Once the highest point of the canyon walls are reached, they decrease in height until we reach the end of the canyon where the Colorado River empties out the south end. The evolutionary theories involve hundreds of millions of years. However, many people now question how such a large canyon could be formed by slow erosion over millions of years based on the Colorado River washing out the dirt, stone and rock’s that in the end formed the canyon into what we see today. How could something so wide at the top be washed out when we only have a small river in comparison to the canyon’s width and depth flowing through it? How could the water that was supposed to have started the Grand Canyon’s formation flowing in the opposite direction of the Colorado River and at a lower elevation than the highest walls of the Grand Canyon start this process? We all know that water flows downhill. However, after the Grand Canyon was formed the water of the Colorado River now flows towards the south end of the canyon. So rivers and streams that form a force that could wash out dirt and stones to form new land marks, crevices, gullies, and even canyons would do so based on the direction they flow. With the formation of mountains we generally observe that the rock layers are pushed and shoved upward, bending the rock layers, pointing them upward on different angles. If the higher walls were formed in this fashion after the canyon was formed, then they should show at least some bending of the rock but they don’t. There are just flat layers. The evolutionary theories of how the Grand Canyon was formed have some very interesting issues to deal with. Granted, many things could have changed over the period of several hundred million years as they tell us it has happened. But… Well if it didn’t happen as the evolutionist tell us, then how did it happen? So how did it happen came a question from the audience? Joe knew the voice and looked at Sarah saying, here it comes. Tom continued with his question adding; so how did God create it? A couple others joined in the question adding how would Noah’s flood cause it? And how do we know that Noah’s flood really happened? All great questions responded Dr. Bob. So let’s take a shot at some opposing points of view and see where it takes us.

For the Grand Canyon to have been formed to the size it is and in a relatively short period of time, it would take a lot of water to wash it out. It would take a lot of water and very fast moving water. Has anyone been around a flood? Carol raised her hand and said I saw the effects of one when the floods happened on the east side of the Rocky Mountains north of Denver. It washed out roads, homes, farms buildings, people died, and cars were washed down rivers as the bridges collapsed. It was just devastating to everyone that lived in the area. Do you remember how long the flood lasted, Asked Dr. Bob? Well I wasn’t there but from what my Aunt told me, once it started many things happened very quickly. Some people just could not get out of the way fast enough. Well that is a little like what I am talking about, replied Dr. Bob. Carol sat back recalling everything her Aunt had told her and remembering how she had seen all the homes that had been destroyed. She leaned her head on Paul’s shoulder as he put his arm around her letting her know he understood how she felt. Tom spoke up adding that this would be impossible to happen. Science has proven how the Grand Canyon was formed. Joe turned and looked at Tom and smiled adding that I felt the same way until I really opened up my mind to all possibilities. It was then that things started to make more sense. We are told by everyone what we should believe. What we need to do is take charge of our own thoughts, do our own research and draw conclusions based on our own findings. What we all need to do is look at all the evidence from all sources, not just one side.

Dr. Bob interrupted trying to put things back on track adding; let’s give creations point of view a shot. Everyone here knows the evolutionist point of view because it is the only one taught in our schools today. If we did have a great flood that crested over the highest peaks of the Grand Canyon and the water started to flow, releasing even more water from the build-up that would have been required to break over the top edge, the flow would become huge in short order. It would have spread out for miles in just minutes pushing things out of its way that got in its path. It would take a global flood for this to be accomplished. A flood so large it would have filled the north end lakes and valleys which are lower than the Grand Canyon walls with enough water to start the process once it reach the highest point of the Grand Canyon walls. Once released the erosion process would have started and the Grand Canyon walls would have been formed as it washed out layer after layer, driving deeper and deeper until we have basically what we see today. This type of an event would have made it possible to form the Grand Canyon in days and not hundreds of millions of years. We also have the effects of time over the last forty five hundred years for the more evident remainder of the erosion to have happened by the wind and rain.

So this brings us to the question: Was there a global flood – Noah’s flood? Pastor Dan interrupted the conversation saying that the hour of time they had planned was about over and added that maybe they could plan another visit from Dr. Bob to dig into the issue of Noah’s flood. Several people quickly spoke out saying; that would be great. I would love to come back replied Dr. Bob. I will plan this with Pastor Dan and we will let everyone know. Pastor Dan dismissed everyone and the gang gathered in the back of the church.

Tom quickly spoke up and asked if anyone would like to join him and Ann at the Pub for a quick drink adding we can discuss everything we heard as he smirked at Joe with a look that let Joe know he was not buying everything he had heard that night. Joe looked at Sarah asking if she would like to accept the offer. Sarah leaned over and whispered in Joe’s ear; I think we better or Tom will lead everybody down his road of logic. Soon everyone agreed to meet at the Pub except Carol who quickly added; I have to be at work at 5:30am tomorrow. I think I need to have Paul take me home. Sure replied Paul.

They headed out the door and before long they were on their way to the Pub. Paul headed off to take Carol home and Tom lead the way to the Pub with Joe and Sarah right behind them. Ann looked over at Tom and said; Tom, you know I love you right? Sure do and the feeling is mutual responded Tom. Well, I want you to know that I support whatever you believe, but I need you to know that I believe in God and that he created everything. That’s good replied Tom as he looked over at Ann and smiled. Ann looked at Tom and a look came over her face, her jaw dropped, and all Tom could see was the look… Joe slammed on his brakes and swerved to the right. Coming to a halt, he quickly jumped from his car and ran towards the twisted up car that Tom and Ann were in. Running up to the broken out windshield he pushed the air bag out of the way and could see Tom strapped in with blood running down his face. He looked over to see Ann but she was gone. Sarah was coming up from the other side when she spotted Ann lying on the ground. She quickly screamed as Joe came running around to the other side. Dial 911 Sarah. I will see what I can do to help. Joe looked up in the sky and said if you have ever helped anyone before, I sure need your help now.

“To be continued”