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The love story of Mike and Kelly |
| Kelly and Mike are co workers and friends. Mike battles a devestating mental illness, and Kelly is determined to help him beat it. |
| While on vacation, Kelly began to feel compelled to pray literally for Mike’s life. She often asked God to restore him to health. She prayed Mike would remember to correctly take his medications. He had confided in her that he sometimes forgot. When she got back to work Mike and she went through their usual ritual of pretending to be angry with one another. Mike would insult her, and then giggle like mad. Kelly always gave a sarcastic,” I love you too. Mike” Then he would wink at her and smile. She asked for resurrection life. She began to break generational curses (judgments on the family line due to the past sins of ancestors) off Mike’s life. She reviewed old Bible study notes and sermons from the church she attended with her family. Kelly spent the next twenty days praying. She fasted on days she did not have to work. When she did eat, it was just a small plate of food. She deeply wanted to spend every possible moment praying for him, and often spent as much as three and four hours a night in prayer for his deliverance. On Saturday night., Kelly agreed to work the floor for some overtime. One of the girls was sick with the flu. So, after working her shift in activities, Kelly clocked out, and then clocked back in for the second shift. Outside Mike was taking a ride home with his sister, Rosalyn. Kelly went out to say goodnight. As he was getting into the car, he turned back to her and softly said,” I love you, Kel” Kelly blushed as she shyly said, “I love you too, Mike,” He giggled. Suddenly,she had a revelation. Her dearest friend, who so often struggled to make his feelings known, had said the words she never expected him to say. This could mean only one thing. There was as of this moment no unfinished business between them. Realizing Mike’s life was in grave danger she increased her praying . She prayed all day when not working, and for all her waking hours after work. She even refused a shift of overtime, so that she could spend the time in prayer. Covering her head and getting on her knees, she prayed, “I come to You, Lord Jesus, asking for freedom for Mike on the basis of the cleanness of my hands. Because of my faithfulness to You. And on the basis of my faith and obedience, I ask You for Mike’s deliverance. A new program, different medicines, different doctors, we do not need. They aren’t the answer, Lord God. You provide freedom from all oppression. Father, let Mike feel Your healing touch. Take all the hurt, pain, and bondage, replacing it with the knowledge of Your love. I am willing, Lord, to be used by You any way You require for Mike’s deliverance I bind the spirit of heaviness, with it’s mourning, sorrow, grief, and broken heartedness. and loose upon Mike the oil of joy for the spirit of heaviness, along with Your healing power, and Promise of resurrection life. May he wear praise as a garment. Amen." Kelly prayed this way for the entire weekend. After work on Monday, she prayed again throughout the night. She took no sleep at all, as the burden for Mike was so heavy. It did not lift until about 6 a m. and ,Kelly finally went to sleep. The phone rang at 8:30 a.m. Kelly groggily picked up the receiver, and spoke. “Hello?” The voice on the phone belonged to Kathy Wright, the other full time activity assistant on the dementia care floor. “Hey, Kel. Sorry to disturb your day off, but we have a situation. Irene’s in the morning meeting, and asked me to call you. Can you come in? I’m working the other floor, today, and no one’s here.” “No, I can’t come in today. I kinda had a bad night”, said Kelly. “Are you all right? Did you seize in the night?” “No, I’m ok. Not a seizure. I was up all night, praying.” answered Kelly. “Maybe a half day, then? I have a trip today, and Rosalyn had volunteered to go with the group. Then, earlier this morning, she called to say that neither she nor Mike were coming in.” “Oh my God! She called them both out? What happened?” Kathy said, “I didn’t take call. Some kind of family emergency.” Kelly‘s heart broke, but she was not surprised. “Family emergency? Mike?” Actually, I was praying for him. All night. That’s why I can’t come in. I haven’t slept. I can’t give you a half-day, either. I’ll be next for the hospital, otherwise.” She sighed. “I guess we can reschedule the outing. You’re back tomorrow. What do I tell the boss?” “ Well, you can tell her whatever you want to. Tell her the truth. You were here when I needed to pray and sent you home. I will see you guys tomorrow. Now, let me get back to sleep before I pass out here.” After Kelly had slept and was refreshed at last, she contacted her prayer group to let them know that Mike was in the hospital. She asked for advice on how to be there for him. She let them know how hard it was for her. Kelly did a load of laundry, then called Doug. “Hey, Chickie! How was your vacation? I missed you,” he said. Kelly said, “Good, really good. We took the kids to Disney World. They had a great time.” “You sound down, Sweetie. What’s up?” Kelly told him what was happening and he insisted on getting her out of the apartment for awhile. “Come on, Chickie. I’m taking you for pizza. In ten minutes. “ He was there in five. They talked endlessly. Where would she be without him? Without the support of friends and family? Doug took her to the Italian restaurant where he worked part time delivering pizza. His full time job wasn’t paying enough to cover all his living expenses now that his divorce was final. We sat down at a table near the kitchen. After ordering two meatball subs, and soda, I began to tell him about my relationship with Mike. “And, don’t skimp on the juicy parts, Chickie.” he said smiling. “ It’s not all that juicy” Kelly answered. “Just friends?” Kelly thought a moment. "Not exactly. “Mike came to work at the Collier home on July 10, 2000. I trained him on the Alzheimer’s unit, and he became my partner there. He is the only person I have worked with that I ever called a partner. Actually, I think I’ve learned as from him as I’ve taught him. And, after the accident (I put my hand over the scar) he helped me see that it didn’t make me ugly. So, he’s kinda got a hero’s place in my heart." The food arrived, and Doug asked the waitress to bring a large order of fries. “To share” he said. Kelly put the straw into her soda, and took a couple of sips. “So, are you more than friends? Come on! I need a thrill” Doug teased “I don’t know.” Mike never says those things. Just not his style, maybe. I say what I feel, though. All the time. But, let me tell you what happened.” Doug leaned forward as she spoke. “It was Saturday, when I worked with him last. I was asked to stay and work a shift for nursing since the new girl called out. So, after my Activities shift, clocked off to take a break between shifts. Mike and I were supposed to ride home with a friend of ours , and I needed to let him know I was staying. Mike started to get into the car, then turned back and said, I love you, Kel." “Really,” was all Doug said. “Doug, I said it back.” Kelly whispered as she blushed. “Well, what does that mean?”, Doug wanted to know. “That there’s no unfinished business between us.”, answered Kelly. “We’ve been the best of friends for years, now, but where I could always put my cards on the table; honestly telling him how I felt, he never could. Where I freely expressed the heartfelt affection in my heart, Mike struggled. He told me that he found it difficult to express his feelings, because of his mental state, and because of the abuse he suffered from an ex -girlfriend.” “I can relate,” said Doug. “Our coworkers tease us, that if one of the two of us walk into a room, the other lights up like it’s Christmas morning. He winks, smiles, and blushes.” “Really? Blushes?” “That’s what I said. Right down to his boots.” Doug smiled. “ That’s kinda sweet,” he said. The following morning Kelly returned to work. She could not have anticipated the barrage of comments and questions she was about to receive about Mike’s condition. She felt like she had been placed. under a spotlight. She was expected to have answers that only his family had. After punching the clock, she headed for the elevators. There Kelly was met by three CNAs from the other floors. They spoke all at once, overlapping one another until Kelly couldn’t be sure who was asking what. “Did you hear anything?” “Is he going to be all right?” “I heard he uses drugs!” That last statement got Kelly’s attention. She whirled around to face my co-worker. “Excuse me, what was that?” The other woman glanced away for a moment, then looked back at Kelly, “That’s what they’re saying”, and she pushed the elevator button. The elevator door opened and, as the group got on, Kelly said,” Don’t listen to ‘them’, because in this place no one gets the story straight. When his family lets us know what happened, then we’ll know." The elevator opened and they got off. As the door closed again, Kelly heard one say,” She’s not talking” Kelly turned my eyes to the ceiling, and asked God, “What?!” The elevator opened to reveal the Dementia unit where Mike and she worked as a team. There was a group of five women looking at pictures. To their right, three men sat at a table sanding wood. In the left rear corner of the room, three women folded towels. Nearby, a man talked to his daughter on the telephone. There was a blind man in a wheelchair, keeping time to the music he heard across the room. The charge nurse gave a report at the desk about an overnight fall. “Good morning, Nurse Lisa,” Kelly greeted as she passed by the District nurse who was accessing a new resident. She smiled as she looked up. “Hi, Kel”, she greeted her cheerily. “Did you hear any news?” Her expression changed to one of worry. “No, Lisa, not yet. But, his sister is with him now. So, maybe I’ll call her tonight.” “OK, hon. Tell him I’m praying.” She put the assessment on the chart, and stood to place the chart on the shelf. She turned back. “ Listen, I have something for you to give him. Come see me before you leave.” “Thank you,” Kelly said giving her a smile. Then, she entered the Dayroom and greeted the residents. “Good morning, Miss Gladys. Miss Joanne. Mother Martha.” Kelly said to the group folding towels. “ Well, hello there” “Good morning, young lady” came the responses. “Hello, Mr. Johnson,” said Kelly, to the man keeping time with his foot., “How are you this morning?” “Fine, real fine. Where’s that partner of yours?” “He’s not well. He’ll be back soon.” Kelly answered him. Kelly went to the supply closet for the things needed for the morning activities, including the date and date to change the reality board which hung on the wall just inside the doors. As she put up the new day and date, she noticed Helen standing beside her reading the board. “Did I miss anything, Miss Helen?” Kelly asked her. The older woman was standing with her hands clasped together as though she were praying. She was deep in her thoughts. Kelly put a hand on her shoulder. “Is it really 2004?” she wanted to know. Smiling ,Kelly said,” Yes, Helen. It’s January 21st, 2004.” Kelly cleared away the remaining breakfast dishes, putting them in the scrape room. This gave her moment to say a quick prayer that God would move in Mike’s life, healing him and returning him home. She wondered if she would see him again. She did not know if he would live at this point. She tried to hide her fear, thinking about the way she had prayed all through the night just two days earlier. Kelly was amazed and in awe, that God should call her and cause her to pray that way when someone was in such danger. Was this something she would get used to? Perhaps, it’s something you get used to not getting used to. Mike and Kelly were usually early, arriving at work by 7:45 am .He had a cigarette or two and conversation with whoever sat in the smoker’s area, located outside the kitchen entrance, while she generally sat in the employee lounge, having coffee and chatting with the housekeepers and the occasional member of the office staff. At 8:00 am, they were on the clock, starting their day. After stopping by the Activity office to pick up the morning paper, as well as whatever instructions might be left by the boss, they headed for the elevator. Kelly loved riding in the elevator with him as the scent of Avatar filled the air. She inhaled deeply, allowing the aroma to overtake her. She would miss that while he was in the hospital. Hiding her tears, she set up the room for balloon volley, putting on catchy Ragtime, which the residents enjoyed. Then, she stepped into the hall to invite the residents seated just outside the dayroom to join the group. They were eager participate. At 10:00 am Kelly let the girl she was working with know that she was taking a break. She pulled out her cell phone as the elevator door opened, and stepped on as she turned it on. Dialing Mike’s sister, Kelly got her voice mail, leaving her a message to please call back when she was free .She returned her call. The conversation was brief. ” I only have a minute, but I wanted you to know he’s stable.” “Thanks, Kelly answered, “I’m on break right now. Call me when you know more.” “Will do” She hung up. Kelly put the phone into it’s case, and put it into her left pocket . She made a cup of tea. A few minutes alone was really going to hit the spot. Just her thoughts and herself. Kelly stared out the windows, silent prayers going up for her partner. Returning to the Dementia unit, Kelly went directly to the Solarium, to set the room for the Sensory Awareness group she led each day from 10:30-11:30 am. This was her favorite activity of the day. Kelly felt it was more meaningful than most other programs, being designed to benefit those who needed stimulation the most; the low functioning, often bed ridden residents. And this is where she felt most needed. The nursing assistants escorted their residents into the solarium while Kelly was setting up for the program. On the round table, she placed a white tablecloth; upon which she placed the items she would be using that day. One artifact had been selected for each one of the senses. One for smell, one for movement, one for touch, one for vision, for hearing, one for taste. After stimulating each of the senses with the group of five women and three men who attended that morning, Kelly thanked all who participated. She noted their levels of active or passive participation, before putting away her supplies, as the nursing staff escorted their residents from the room to freshen up for the noon meal. After the meal, the room was set up for the afternoon’s activity programs. These included Kickball at 2pm, and a reminisce group, which Mike loved to do. Kelly took over the reminisce group in his absence. Additionally, there was a folding station set up in the back of the room. There was a puzzles section, a reading section, and a pacing area( where agitated Alzheimer’s residents could safely pace.) Recent additions were the baby dolls section( complete with dolls, stroller, and basinet) and a visual stimulation section for low functioning residents. For the men there was a wood working section. The other activity girl played Kickball while Kelly watched over the room to prevent falls with the newest resident hovering over her shoulder repeating, in her tiny Irish brogue, “Is it time to go home now, Dear?” Kelly began the reminisce group. The topic was Winter Evenings at Home, and Kelly brought out boxes containing Winter artifacts. Then, each activity assistant took an afternoon break, while the other did a Sing a long with the residents. How the residents loved to sing those old songs! Nurse Lisa was at the desk charting when Kelly left at 4o'clock. She gave Kelly two magnets with Bible verses, one with Mike’s name, and the other with hers. Kelly gave her a hug as she thanked her for them both ,followed by a promise to keep her informed. “Tell them I’m praying, she called after Kelly as she got into the elevator. Kelly waved an acknowledgment as the door closed. She checked for messages on her cell as I went downstairs. There were none. She was grateful for that, and for the fact that for the first time in hours,she had a moment alone. Uninterrupted thoughts. She welcomed those moments, for this was when she could freely pray and not be interrupted by well- meaning questioners asking about Mike’s health. And at the moment, allKelly wanted was to breathe. Kelly was happy to walk home today. Walking always helps clear the head of the junk that find it’s way there during the day. Especially here. Especially now. What Kelly wanted, needed, right now was time to pray. It might seem strange to be walking down to street praying. Surely, that looks crazy to passers by. Not a serious problem, since one can open the cell phone, it will look like talking on the phone. Forget using the cell as a prop,thought Kelly, If I look crazy, who cares? The house phone was ringing as Kelly unlocked the door. It was her best friend forever calling from Asheboro. “Hi, Lisa, how are you?” “Been better,” she said,”You? “ Mike’s in the hospital. Nearly died. Might still. I haven’t heard from his sister yet.” “Ah, geez, Kel. I’ll be there in a second. Right after I get me some wheels. Sorry hon, no car.” “Well, ”Kelly said asshe went to the kitchen for a glass of cherry Pepsi,” "I will have to forgive you.” The women giggled. Kelly took her Pepsi into the living room, and sat on the couch. Tearfully, she explained to Lisa the events of the last two days. Then she noticed a text message from Mike’s sister. It read, “They are moving him tomorrow. Will call tomorrow nite. R. Kelly mentioned it to Lisa. “She included the phone number for the floor he will be on “Kelly told her, writing it down. “Wonderful!” she replied, “Maybe you can see him” “Oh, I doubt he wants to be seen just yet, but that would be nice. If I can get there, I mean.” After she speaking with Lisa,she called her mother to fill her in on everything before retiring to her room to pray. That night,Kelly prayed Psalm 91 for Mike, seeking God’s protection as he stayed in the hospital. The next morning was Thursday. The deacon would be coming in the afternoon to bring communion to the Collier Home's Catholic residents. She hoped it wouldn't fall on her shoulders to tell him about Mike. When she saw him,Kelly I swallowed. Hard. “Hello, Deacon “, she started to say. He jumped in with, “It’s all right. I know about Mike. His sister called the church. “ She was so relieved that he already knew. So free of the worry that she was to be asked questions for which there were no answers, that she hugged the dear man of God. Kelly was happy for this rare opportunity to escort the deacon on his rounds with the communion. Down each hall they traveled bringing the host to each parishioner on the floor. This gave Kelly the chance to pray with the deacon for Mike. “Are you Catholic?” the deacon inquired. “No, I’m not. I am a Christian, but I’m protestant” “Too bad” he said, and smiled. Kelly was curious. “Why?” “ It’s just a shame that I’m going to ask for God’s blessing for you, too. Even though, I may be fired,” He laughed softly. “Why, you rebel, you!” “You know it!” and he placed his hands on Kelly's head and began to pray. When they were finished, Kelly returned to the Activity room, so the Activity Aides could take their afternoon break. and gathered a group together to read articles from the paper. Early the next morning the phone rang. It was Kelly''s younger sister, Lillian Rose. “Have lunch with me, Sis. And, tell me all about your man.” she demanded. laughing. “OK, I can be ready in two seconds flat.” They went to the diner, and sat at the counter. After ordering food, Kelly told her everything. “He was born on December 27, 1955. He was named Michael Augustus Bartholomew Mazonikus,” I began,” named after his paternal grandfather. He is the eldest son of Michael and Moira Mazonikus. There are three siblings. His brother, Vicente , was born on April 17, two years later. His sister, Rosalyn was born on the 22nd of September, the following year. His youngest sibling, a brother, was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1965. The Mazonikus’ named him Augustus . The family called him “Mitch”. The food arrived. as I continued. ” They were a poor family, and often had to make do. At the age 10, Mike shined shoes at the corner barber shop. . Their mother cleaned homes, to supplement her husband’s income from the Deli. When Rosalyn was old enough, she helped her mother clean houses. “When Mike was a teenager, he went to work in the local deli with his father, and when he reached adulthood, Mike managed an Italian restaurant. He also owned four houses, which he rented out for additional income. He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra. Together, they had one child They named her Eleni Jade She was born on May 30, 1983. Sandra died of heart failure in the Winter of her 29th year. It was Eleni who found her mother’s body. She was seven.” “Wow! She died so young! How awful. How’d you meet Mike?” “He came to work at the nursing center in July, 2000. We work together on the Alzheimer’s unit. I had just taken the job as Assistant Director of Activities. He‘s been my partner on that unit for the last four years” “ So, this was right after your promotion, then. “Does he live nearby? “ “He lives in the house his father built 35 years ago. It’s just down the road. Very near our work.” “And his name is Mike? Or is it Michael?” “It’s both. His family and friends call him ‘Mike” but he goes by Michael at work” “Well, what do you call him then?” ”Both. Let’s just say that I work with Michael, but I love Mike.” ”Ah, ha! You are more than friends then!” “I don’t know. Maybe it’s just hero worship because of my accident. He was so sweet to me. So supportive. I was afraid that scar would make me ugly forever. ‘’ “You nut!” she chided . “You couldn’t be ugly if you tried!” “What does Mike have?” asked the younger woman. “I’m not exactly sure. He calls it “a crazy depression,” “Maybe you should keep it as friends, then.” Wiser words may not have been spoken. Kelly dug into her meal as she talked. “Well, we are that. Anyway, my divorce is still pending, and Mike is always with his ex and little girl. Even if we wanted to date, I‘m technically a boss to him, so, that‘s that.“ “How old is the daughter?” Lily coughed, and took a drink of her iced tea. “She’s a teenager. His other daughter is 20.” Lily asked suggested that I find a support group to help me learn about Mike's illness. " If you're going to be part of Mike's support base, you need one yourself." "Tomorrow."Kelly promised that she would. The following day, Kelly searched online for support groups for those having a relationship with people with depression, and suicidal ideations.She found a Christ centered support network for the mentally ill and their families. It became her rock and strong tower in the times of storm.Kelly went to the join page, and after answering a few questions about why Ishe wanted to join,was welcomed graciously into the group. The next day there was e-mail from that group from the moderators of the group. They sent information that proved to be a saving influence., as well as links to sites for more information, council , and support. It it amazing how much information is available to those who know where to seek it. There was an email from Kelly's mother asking if she was going to Church tomorrow, and one from Mike’s sister. She was relieved to learn that Mike had been released from the hospital. That was such good news. Perhapsshe had been mistaken about the severity of his condition . For the email said simply, “Tell everyone that Mike is ok. He had a bit of food poisoning." She thought that was a bit odd, considering her fierceness in prayer. Shrugging her shoulders, she called Lisa, and then her mom and shared with them the news. "You should be ecstatic. What's troubling you, dear?" asked Mrs Chadwick. As Kelly shared the things on her heart, she sighed. "What if I'm not praying right?" Her mother answered,"Honey, I promise you, there is nothing wrong with your prayer life. Other than the fact that you spend so much time at it. Do I wish sometimes that you would socialize a bit more? Sure. But, I don't think there's anything wrong with your prayers. Really. It's just a bee in your bonnet." At the mention of an old saying that had belonged to her grandmother,Kelly smiled. "My prayers for Mike are about his mental illness, not food poisoning. I don't understand." Mrs. Chadwick gently said, "God may be leading you to pray, however, Rose does not know how God is leading you. Let Mike talk to you. It's not his sister's place." "Thank you, Mom. Goodnight." Kelly printed out the pages from the Mental Health Support Group, Taking the pages, she curled up on the couch to read them. There was an article on clinical depression, and several pages on bipolar disorder. Carefully she read through all the pages, then prayed before going to bed. Sunday morning Kelly Joy Chadwick was up at seven, reading the Bible in quiet before getting ready for church. Her mother would be coming for her about 10:30am. This gave Kelly plenty of time to read the word and pray. They sat near the front of the sanctuary, and were quickly joined by Kelly's sisters , a niece, and four nephews. The opening hymn was Trust and Obey. This was followed by several songs from the worship team. After the youth were dismissed, and the offering taken, the Pastor taught a powerful message entitled The Creative Power Of Words. Spoken words. Words spoken out of faith and knowledge of God’s Word. God spoke the Word and the world took shape. Jesus spoke and the winds stood still. We, as believers in the Cross of Christ have the same authority, according to the compelling message. Kelly felt God was speaking especially to her that morning. The service ended with a Chorus of Celebrate Jesus. Following the service was a fellowship luncheon to welcome a young couple that had joined the church that month. Kelly teased her mother tha tshe was only going along for the food. They sat ate the same table as the Pastor and his wife. The youth pastor joined them along with his fiancé. Kelly's mother was involved in conversation about the building committee, while her sisters concerned themselves with the details about her relationship with Mike. For rest of the afternoon Kelly shared with her sisters how she how she an Mike had become the best of friends. She told them what it was like to work with a man who was more tender, more compassionate than any man she had known to date. She explained that they weren’t ready to tell the world about it. After all, when you have a relationship with a man with mental illness, it is often difficult to be sure what it is you actually have. That evening, they all went to the amusement park. There was a concert in the amphitheatre they wanted to see. However, the family wanted to take in some rides first.Kelly thought it would be fun to ride the bumper cars, since she did not drive. After crashing into the wall twice, she pulled out her cell phone and using the voice dial, called her mother’s phone. Imagine her surprise when she actually picked up! “What in God’s name do you want?” she whispered. “Driving tips,” answered Kelly. Mrs. Chadwick crashed into the wall and rolled her eyes. The older of the sisters then called Kelly's phone to yell at her. “You’re not supposed to talk on the cell phone and drive, you nut!!” Next, the younger sister called their mother’s phone to make sure she was ok. Then, she shook her fist at Kelly as she drove just past her enough to block her bumper car, running Kelly into the wall. As Kelly smiled at her sisters, her eyes glistened. |
| Up For The Battle It was a Wednesday afternoon in January, 2004. Mike and Kelly walked home together after work. He had a kind of guilty, frustrated look in his eyes when he told her the truth about his illness. " I have a crazy depression. " He said this because of the dark thoughts he said were trying to kill him. He had been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, otherwise known as Manic Depression. He said it was the mania that would kill him. He told her once that he knew there was coming a day when he would no longer realize how sick his mind really was. He said there is treatment, but no cure. He wondered if his family would be strong enough, in that day, to get him the right help. Even if he fought them. He knew he would. He said, "My sister knows I'll hate her for locking me away. Could you do it?" "Well, Mike, I do know it wouldn't be forever,” was the answer. Mike spoke often of these troubling thoughts. He called it "being up in my head". These episodes came about four times a year, and were worse at the holidays. It was like a convulsion of emotions. "Oh! Kind of like what happens to my body when I have a seizure." Kelly said. He shared with her his need for patterns, his craving for symmetry. He explained that this was why he stopped to chat only at the front tire of a parked car, never at the back tire. He had an odd collection of papers. Each was purchased on the day of an "event, such as the death of the pope. Not that he ever read them. He saved them ,unopened and unread. He had been in remission for the last seven years, but began to be troubled following his break up from his live in girlfriend. She had moved out just after Thanksgiving. The phone rang. It was Rosalyn, calling to say that her brother had been taken to the emergency room early that morning. . It was serious, and she did not know if he would live through the next 24 hours. She wondered if Kelly would pray for him that night. Kelly promised she would. "Please keep me posted.",Kelly said before they hung up. Immediately, she began to pray. "Lord Jesus, I am asking for Mike’s life and for his complete deliverance You are the One who can take away all bondage. May he know Your joy ,Lord God. May he walk in health and strength because of You .May he be drawn to Your love. May he see that love in the lives of all who pray for him. Let us minister Your Grace to Mike at this time, and, may his understanding of You be increased. Grant Mike Your peace that knows no limit. And, may his faith grow stronger daily. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen.” Reading the Bible , Kelly was impressed by the following verses on the subject of protection. From Psalm 91 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD “ He is my refuge and my fortress.; my God; in Him will I trust. Because you have made Him, the LORD who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling. Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. They will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned., nor shall the fire scorch you. Isaiah 54:17 No weapon formed against you will prosper, and every tongue that rises against you , you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from ME, says the LORD. She read from where she had left off in the New Testament book of 1 Peter Chapter four . Verses 7-11 seemed to leap off the page. The end of all things is upon us, so you must lead an orderly, and sober life, give to prayer. Above all, keep your love for one another at full strength, for love cancels many sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Whatever your gift, use it in service to one another, as good stewards dispensing the grace of God… In all things, so act that the glory may be God’s through Jesus Christ, to him belong glory and honor Amen. Somehow, these words seemed to really impact her. It was like they just leapt off the page and were imprinted on Kelly’s very heart. There is a word for this. Rhema. Rhema is when God so speaks His Word to you that the words are alive and personal. But, what did this all mean? Kelly called Lisa , who had been her best friend and prayer partner for a dozen years, and told shared the verses with her, asked what she thought. “ Well, it’s about time I could do this for you. “ she said. “Usually, it’s me looking to you for guidance. I actually think it’s kinda simple. “ “It is?” “Yeah, Don’t you think it God’s way of saying He’s going to protect you from something you’re going to go through?” “Great! Because, really I need to go through something more. Yippee. I wonder if it’ll be water, or fire.” “You know, that’s not literal.” said Lisa. “As long as I see Mike whole and set free, I guess it’s ok ”. That night this was Kelly’s prayer for Mike. “Heavenly Father, I plead the blood of Jesus over the life of Mike Mazonikus. I ask for his deliverance from all fear, anxiety, and depression. Remove all oppression from his life, Lord God. I pray for his soul to restored to wholeness, Father. I ask that he be healed and set free. I ask for a creative miracle in Mike’s mind and in his heart, Father, for complete restoration of his life. I commit myself to watch over him and protect him in prayer, for I know You will not fail him. LORD God, in Jesus name I ask that You close any entrance where the enemy has gained a foothold. Father, break off every generational curse from Mike’s life; break them back four generations and four generations forward. May his family will know the pain of the generational judgments no longer. May all his descendants walk in freedom. Amen.” Kelly dreamt that she was trapped with Mike in a building that was falling down. There had been an earthquake and Mike had been badly hurt. Thinking he was dying, he urged Kelly to save herself before it was too late. He asked her to leave him behind. Kelly could not do it. She couldn’t leave him, there, alone, to die. As he lost consciousness, she sat beside him. She was not afraid, for she knew that rescuers were on their way. They would find them. They would certainly hear Kelly calling for help. And, so, as the building came down around them, Kelly held Mike’s hand, patiently waiting for their rescue. And, another. In the dream Mike was missing. As the search went on, Kelly saw what appeared to be a glow, a light of some kind. Going nearer, she saw it to be a flaming doorway. Suddenly, she realized that this was where Mike was to be found. It was the door to Mike’s hell. So, rather than run away, as the others did, Kelly walked through that doorway of flame, and searched for Mike. When she found him, he said he was glad she had not given up, for he did not know the way out of this place of torment. When Kelly went to her weekly Bible study group that Thursday, the ladies prayed with her for Mike. They prayed for vision, and for wisdom to understand these things. They believed as Lisa did, that God was going to bring her through something difficult. It would be hard, but, she would not go through it alone. During the prayer time, one prayer warrior had a word for her . Kelly had never had anyone speak over her life like this before. It was strange, but somehow it comforted her. She spoke and said, “My child, I never promised that your walk with Me would be an easy one, but it will have rewards. Look to Me for direction. I will guide your steps . You will never be alone for I will always send someone to you, as you have need, to help you on your journey. Remember, when people speak evil of you behind your back, they do not speak for Me, for I am your Father in Heaven. I have only good to say of My Children.” The teaching that evening was from Joshua , chapters 16 and 17 on the subject of Boundaries and Allotments. It was about the way God sets up our assignments according to our giftings, and talents. These boundaries define our assigned areas, much as our talents define our jobs. In part, it is geographical, in part; it is partly a matter of inheritance. God uses our background and lineage to aid in our placements just as much as our willingness to serve. It is as important as our natural abilities in God’s will for our lives. We must be wary of the squatters in our life, who presume to know God’s will for our life, even though it is obvious they don’t even know God’s will for their own. These are the people who will interfere with God’s purpose and plan for one’s ministry in His Kingdom. Through the night and for many nights to come, Kelly had dreams like the ones mentioned earlier. She wondered if maybe she should back off. Protect her own self. She didn’t have to prayerfully guard this man. She could choose a different path. Or, could she? If she did back off, how would she live with it? How could she choose to fail, not only Mike, but also, God? Kelly sought God, with much fasting and prayer. She deeply wanted to know His plan for her life. She was determined to find God’s Plan for Mike, as well. She got her hands on everything she could find on spiritual warfare. It someone wrote the book, she read it. She read about intercession, deliverance, and, healing. Then, knowing that not every illness is inspired by evil, Kelly read books on psychology, and mental illness, too. She looked for books written by family members who had loved ones battling mental illness, but found few. Kelly fasted and prayed on Mike’s behalf. She pleaded with God for Mike to be made completely whole; that his life in the earth be long and full. She read God’s Word by the hour, clinging to the Psalms. Israel’s hymnbook became her bastion of strength She began to speak God’s Word over Mike’s life and circumstances She believed that she was putting God’s Word into her heart in such a way that it would come out in power. People began to whisper . They said she was obsessed with Mike. Kelly did not care. She had laid hold of Mike’s deliverance and was determined to see it through. If Satan wanted Mike’s life, he was going to have to come through Kelly, as she continued to stand patiently in the gap on Mike’s behalf, keeping watch and waiting for Mike’s Day of Deliverance. Kelly clung to verses like Isaiah 61:1 which says ,The spirit of the LORD God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound. This is what Kelly sought God for, Mike’s liberty. Kelly studied about hearing from God. In Dt 4:10-36, she saw that God speaks to us so we can live by the Fear of the Lord. We do not hear when there are idols in our life. When we allow things to come between us and God, we can not expect to hear His Voice . God speaks through people, His Word, and circumstances. It was at this time that God spoke to her heart, and encouraged her to keep a prayer journal. In this journal, Kelly kept Scripture read, things prophesied, answered prayers, the concerns of hr heart, things revealed during prayer and, of course, her prayers for Mike. Like this one, in which she used his full given name. “Father, I plead your tender mercies upon the life of Michael Augustus Bartholomew Mazonikus. I plead the blood of Jesus over his life. I pray you will surround him with songs and shouts of deliverance. I continue to stand in the gap and watch over him in prayer as I promised his mother I would do, before she died. I feel the love you have for Mike and pray he will learn to recognize it. . Son of Righteousness, Come, with Healing in Your wings. Surround Mike and set him free from all bondage. I bind up all oppression and depression. I ask for healing for his wounded spirit. I bind the spirit of heaviness and loose the garment of praise, asking that the oil of joy be released in his life. I stand in the gap for Mike, and, take hold of his deliverance by faith. I loose resurrection power; resurrection life upon him. May his joy be unspeakable, and overflowing. Amen.” Kelly studied the Scriptures on prayer, and learned why prayer fails. It fails due to unconfessed sin, lack of mercy, despising the law of God, having guilt on one’s hands, stubbornness, and instability in prayer, self-indulgence. Successful prayer comes from contrition, faith, and humility. People continued to talk of Kelly’s "obsession" with Mike. She was, in fact, focused, and committed . For, if her desire to see this man set free was an obsession, she was no more obsessed with Mike, than God was. The choir sang How great Thou Art, before the pastor’s sermon, the following Sunday, which was a teaching from 1 Samuel Chapter 10. He taught about getting in position to receive the anointing of God. He talked about the need for personal salvation, followed by the baptism of the Spirit. He said that this baptism had the purpose of anointing God's servants with power for ministry. He explained that baptism in the Spirit should never be confused with the gift of speaking in tongues. These things are not synonymous. He taught about living a life of humility. He said works, looks, and talent have nothing to do with God’s anointing on a person’s life, only willingness to serve God. The pastor showed what to expect from the anointing. Direction, for one. He had us read vv 2 & 3 aloud with him. Provision, for another. We can expect our needs to be graciously met in every area of life. Marriage, health, workplace, finances, emotional health, and in our spiritual life as well. There is a deeper ability to pray God’s will and purposes in the lives of other people. Kelly studied, too, the authority of the believer. She studied this in both the old and new testaments, learning that the saints have the same authority in spiritual things as those whom the Lord sent out. We have this authority only as God sends us, for it is never truly our authority, but is His, even as the battle is His. Rose called to say that her brother was doing better. She expected him to return to his own home the next day, and to work the following week. Kelly thanked her for letting her know, and prepared for bed; all the while praising God for this victory. Yet, she knew in her heart that the battle for Mike’s life was far from over. |
| This is a reworking of the interactive by the same title. I feel it will work better here. Enjoy. On July 7, 2000, The Lillian Collier Center For Alzheimer Care held it’s Annual Summer Festival . Kelly was dressed as a clown, and standing at the hot-dog kiosk. Her business was not exactly flourishing. If Kelly was less introverted, she might have been calling out to the crowd of residents, staff, family members and visitors, rather than patiently waiting for hunger to strike. Her supervisor came by and told me she was set to hire a man to work with them. "He starts Monday”, she said. "So, you'll have to show him the ropes. He's an excellent team player whom I had the pleasure of working with some years ago. I think you're going to be happy having him on our team." She smiled, “ You know, Kel, next year I think I’ll assign you to the dunking machine.” She left to help them, there. Kelly drifted off in thought for a minute or two, and when she looked up, there were a dozen hungry people all clamoring for a hot dog. Monday morning came with a clap of thunder, and the sky above opening up to loose a brief torrent of rain upon the unsuspecting town. It let up just long enough for Kelly to walk to work. As she entered the nursing center, it began to rain hard. "Whew!" she exclaimed. "Another minute and I'd have been a drowned rat!" Kelly heard the sound of laughter behind me. It was the Activity Director, Irene Garner. She was clocking into work at the same time . "Looks like you just missed getting rained on, Lady!", said Irene. The Director of Environmental Services, Rob Thompson, who had just entered the building, was not so lucky, and was soaked to the skin. "Man, is it brutal!" he said, shaking the water off his head. The two women laughed loudly. "Where's your raingear, Rob?" Kelly asked teasingly. "In the truck." was he reply. Kelly looked over at her boss. Both women rolled their eyes, and mumbled something comparing men to small children. Just then, there was a page. “Irene Garner, please call extension 100. Irene, call 100 please.” Irene picked up the phone at the time clock, and dialed. "This is Irene. Oh, he is? Ask him to wait in the reception area. I will meet him there in five. " She turned to Kelly as she hung up. "Your new partner has arrived. I will bring him upstairs after he fills out his paperwork." "OK, I'll be helping with room trays in the north hall until 9:30." Kelly was bringing the last room tray into the dish room for the dietary side to scrape before leaving the unit to take the breakfast dishes to the kitchen for washing, when Irene came in with Mike. "We're all set, for now,” she said. He'll spend this week here with you, then, I'll have him train on the other units. After that, he's all yours. Any questions?" There were none. "OK, then, I will be in Care Conference until lunchtime. I'll cover yours, too, while you orient Mike. See you both at 12:30?" We both said "Yes", and Rene left the room. "Ok, Mike," I said as we began to work. "The first thing I want you aware of is the chair alarm. There will be one attached to anyone who is at risk for falls. I make a list of names for us. I'll give you a copy" "Gotcha." he answered. Mike asked, “what’s our program for this morning?” “We are doing the Sensory Awareness Group in the solarium. We’ll take a geri-chair each and head down the west hall.” answered Kelly. The pair was met in the hall by two CNAs, Barbara, and Nancy. “We’ll get the residents. You can just set up the room.” said Nancy. “Great! Ok, Mike, let’s get going!” “You’re the boss! ”said Mike. Kelly laughed. “In my dreams, maybe.” As it was Summer, Kelly and Mike did a beach theme with the group. For the sense of smell, they used a honeysuckle lotion. This was rubbed onto the skin of those who wished it. This was followed by five minutes of a beach ball toss. For visual stimulation, they focused the group on the colors on the ball. Next, the pair helped the residents in the group feel seashells to tactile stimulation. Finally, Kelly and Mike offered the group a taste of vanilla ice cream . When the program finished, Kelly and Mike returned the residents to the common room. Kathy, the other activity assistant, helped them bring the residents to the dining room. The nursing assistants brought their residents into the dining room. Each nursing assistant helped their residents wash their hands, then, offered them a clothing protector. Kelly and Mike took a group of residents to the downstairs multi-purpose room for a quiet lunch, while lunch was served upstairs. “Some of our residents eat better in a quiet environment,” explained Kelly. At 12:30, Kelly, Mike and Irene had lunch together in the employee break room, located across from the time clock . The lunch that was served was the same as the residents ate, with fewer consistencies. Kelly asked Irene, “So, how are you? I really haven’t seen much of you since your surgery.” “ I’m doing fine, thanks. They got the entire mass, so, no more ovarian cancer. Thank God. And, how is everything with your hubby?” Kelly felt her face blush. She sighed deeply. “I wish I could say things were different. The truth is, if he doesn’t stop drinking, he’ll probably die.” As she sighed, once more, she leaned on her folded hands. “I used to drink.” volunteered Mike. “Drank a lot. These days, I might have a brew now and again. Gave up the nightly beers, when my wife got pregnant. Got religion, too.” Irene gave him a quizzical look. “Didn’t tell me you got religion”, she said with a smirk. Mike laughed and replied, “Well, I’m not a Christian. I’m Catholic.” “What does that mean? “ Irene wanted to know. “I’m Catholic, and I’m a Christian.” “I mean, I’m not a born again.” “Ok, Kel, the ball’s in your court”, said Irene. “Well, without the theological discussion, let me ask you this- What do you believe about Jesus?” asked Kelly. Mike replied, “ Just the usual stuff. He’s God’s son. He died on the cross, and raised on Easter Sunday. Did I pass?” “I’m not worried,” said Kelly. “OK, guys, time to get back to work, said Irene. “Tomorrow’s lunch table discussion will be politics.” She smiled. They cleaned up their table, and left the room. Kelly soon found that Mike had a natural insight for the needs of the geriatric population, and ability to grasp the activity programs. She showed him, step by step the policies and procedures to be followed, and by day three, he was ready to do his first activity program without guidance. Mike thoroughly enjoyed doing active programs with the residents, like exercise groups ,and bowling. The residents also responded well to his puzzle working groups, and trivia games. He became well respected for his work with those with behavior issues, while Kelly’s work with the lower functioning, sicker population continued to flourish. Her specialty was in the area of sensory stimulation and reminisce groups. Mike took over the art groups, while Kelly visited 1:1 in rooms of the bed bound. Friday morning, the weather was clear and bright. Perfect for a trip out to the zoo.Kelly gathered the senior who were going out, along with a sweater or light jacket for each. She signed them off the unit, and escorted them to the lobby to wait for the bus. Mike went to the kichen to receive the sandwiches and drinks that had been prepared for the group. This he loaded onto the bus, and prepared to received the group. The driver came inside the building, smiling. "Thank God we got good weather. It'll be a nice day to walk around. Not like the last one. We got rained out, the day the Day Center was supposed to go. Never did get them back out there." "Hi, Jack, how are you?" "Great, Kelly. You?" "Doing well, thanks. Okay, we have three wheelchairs we're bring with us, two staff, two resident who will walk unassisted, and two volunteers meeting us there." reminded Kelly. Jack translated that information into seats on the bus as Mike stepped back inside. "Okay," said Jack, "If Mrs. Johnson wants to stay in her chair for the ride, we can transfer two others to a seat." Mrs Johnson stated that she preferred it, and Jack continued, That'll be the wheelchairs. Mike and I should get them onboard, first, then you bring the others out to us." After everyone was seated and buckled in, Kelly suggested that the group sing a few songs as they travelled. They loved the idea, and began right away with a chorus of "Hail, Hail, The Gang's All Here." Then, Roy Abrams remembered his harmonica, and pulled it out of it's silver case. "How about this one?" and he began to play "Silent Night". " Kelly whispered to Mike, "It's the song that never ends. Christmas in July." Mike asked the group, "Hey, gang how about we request some good old songs from your day?" A woman on the back of the bus wanted to hear "Down By The Old Mill Steam." A man requested "In The Good Old Summertime." "I want to hear some good singing, now." said Mike loudly. "All the way to the zoo." It was a suggestion the group couldn't refuse, and so they sang their favorite songs on the way there, and later sang all the way home. Arriving at the zoo, Jack easily found bus parking next to the public restrooms. This was good, for nearly all needed to use the facilities. The volunteers met the group at the picnic table, and helped serve up the lunch. Afterwards, the group walked together down the pathway to the animals. "Oh, no! I forgot to get the camera." said Kelly. "Don't worry, Kelly," said Mike, :I have mine." "My hero." was her answer. |
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