The Angel of Death part II The Revised Standard Version

As the semester progressed 'The Angel of Death' had this trick of separating the class into three categories; Dumb, Dumber and Duh? What he would do is tell jokes that were truly above most people's heads and then wait for a response of some kind like; 'I think I get it' giggle; 'I'm going to pretend I get it', nervous snicker; to a full blown 'Duh?' look. Every time he did this I would chortle loudly, which caused a quick glance at me to see if I really understood. I did, which caused a look of surprise to take over his face with a slight smile and he sent an acknowledging bow of 'Awe!' my way. God was slowly winning him over.

A couple weeks later, on a Friday, was our second test. It was available to take for one day and one day only. On that day I just so happened to wake up with a fever, chills and vomiting. "Holy Cow!" was all I could think. I quickly dialed his extension at school to let him decide if I could wait until the next day to take the test. The secretary answered and I ask for the professor. Recognizing my voice she said, "Merrym, I'm sorry. He's out of town until Monday. Can I take a message?" A quick, "No." was issued. While hanging up, another 'Holy Cow!' spewed from my mouth. I got ready, bundling up to drag my butt to school and fulfill my obligation.

As I took the test, each time I started to answer a question I would have to puke. So I'd throw down my pencil and head to the bathroom as fast as my wheels would roll. In the end I answered all the questions with a tiny, nondescript, answer. After which I gave up and went home to bed.

Monday came and I headed to class preparing myself for the embarrassment of a bad grade. As the professor grandly pulled out the stack of tests, he said, "Merrym, the secretary says you were trying to get a hold of me on Friday. What did you need?" In a matter-of fact tone, I informed him of what had happened and then waited for my test. The professor proceeded to do his torture act of announcing each grade aloud, while waving the paper above each students head. I waited and waited for my dose of humiliation, but it never came.

When he finished passing out all the other tests, he asked me to meet him outside the door. As I followed him my mind went racing for what I thought he was about to say; "Give up! You don't belong in college."

To my amazement, he pulled me to a corner and showed me my grade (A BIG FAT F). He quietly informed me I couldn't take the test again (No shock there!). He added how he appreciated that I tried taking the test in my condition. Also that he liked the fact that just because I was disabled I didn't try to receive special treatment and he'd figure out some kind of makeup work I could do to compensate for the bad grade. "What?! He never allows that!?", I said to myself.

In shock I hugged and thanked him without a second thought. As I pulled away quickly I saw his face change from astonishment to a real true smile.

I believe God changed him a little more that day. Thank you once again Lord!

The Spirit of the Lord will come upon you in power, and you will be changed into a different person.

1 Samuel 10:6

I am blessed

Merrym Dawn Mathis Bruce

P.S.

On June 19, 2010 it will be 20 years to the day that the blessed/tragedy changed my life forever. My kids and I are celebrating my life by going on vacation to Disneyland and Legoland. While I'm gone I've written some posts for you. Due to popular demand when I get back I will start posting 5 days a week