’It’s interesting how the Holy Spirit can work through us in times of need, or perhaps it’s because we become more receptive when we’re in need,’ says mum, Louise Kelly as she remembers how the norovirus drew her and her three children closer to God.
It was nearly midnight on a Saturday when a familiar sound roused me from a much-needed slumber, the sound that every parent dreads…the sound of your child being sick. In the distance, the laughter from the pub at the bottom of my road provided a stark contrast to the sound of retching and crying.
Taking a deep breath, I approached my toddler’s bedroom, flicking on the bathroom light on my way so I could assess the aftermath. There he sat, looking bewildered, with his car-studded bedsheets, matching pyjamas, and beautiful curly hair soaked in thick vomit, emitting the all-too-familiar odour: the unmistakable scent of norovirus.
I sprang into action mode - dashing downstairs for a bin bag and two packets of baby wipes; I had dealt with this scenario plenty of times before and knew the drill
I sprang into action mode - dashing downstairs for a bin bag and two packets of baby wipes; I had dealt with this scenario plenty of times before and knew the drill. I was eager to comfort him while ensuring not to cross-contaminate with my girls who were fast asleep in their bedroom. Once I had showered him off, I rummaged through my extremely disorganised airing cupboard, (with a newfound appreciation for the phrase, ‘finding a needle in a haystack’) to find a toddler-sized duvet cover and fitted sheet. Finally, I found one (albeit a princess one) and as I put it on and layered his bed with clean towels, I prayed that Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty wouldn’t be the cause of a meltdown in the morning.
A couple of days passed, and we were in the thick of it. Despite my best efforts, the cross-contamination had already occurred
A couple of days passed, and we were in the thick of it. Despite my best efforts, the cross-contamination had already occurred, and our home had become a biohazard. The tumble dryer churned away with a soothing, rhythmic hum, marking the third wash of the day and it wasn’t even midday yet. Being stuck at home with my sick children during the first week of decent weather this year was not part of the plan, and yet, amidst the discomfort and tonnes of washing, I learnt profound lessons about God’s provision.
The time I spent in prayer that week was remarkably healing. Time seemed to stand still as we were confined to our own little quarantined bubble; my three children appeared less interested in their toys and kindles than usual and far more receptive during prayer times, drawn to scripture like moths to a flame. Like comforting manna, we delved into the story of Noah and the flood and the trials of Job, as well as the miracles of Jesus. Throughout that week, we unintentionally formed our own domestic liturgy: first a story from the Old Testament, followed by a Gospel passage, then a moment of prayer, and finally, a song.
It’s interesting how the Holy Spirit can work through us in times of need, or perhaps it’s because we become more receptive when we’re in need, enabling us to hear his voice more clearly. For example, despite being a chronically under-slept single mum to three young kids, I found myself changing bunk bed sheets at 3am without a sigh. I felt a profound sense of peace and conviction that I was being blessed during this period of trial. My vocation as a mother was being tested and yet, in a sense, fulfilled.
I was blessed with a warm, cosy home, equipped with a functional washer-dryer and modern biological laundry detergent. I had the privilege of possessing the financial means to purchase multiple bottles of Calpol and copious amounts of kitchen roll. I was fortunate to have access to health-related information at my fingertips, reminding me to prioritise hydration and slowly reintroducing solids such as bananas, apple, and toast. Amid illness, the Holy Spirit taught me to praise him.
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Even randomly opening my Bible led me to find the verse from Thessalonians ‘Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.’ (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Everyday conveniences became symbols of God’s provision and care, reminding me to be grateful even in the face of adversity.
I can assure you, I don’t usually find myself gushing over a tummy bug. I must confess, I sometimes find myself feeling bitter and resentful as a single mum, with no one to tag team with during a bout of illness. However, this time, the sickness brought with it an unexpected opportunity for connection, a newfound sense of peace, and brought us closer together as a family.
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