Read Online Rebecca's Bouquet by Lisa Jones Baker - Free Book Online Page A

expression in her eyes had been replaced with a mixture of hope and curiosity.
    â€œYou’re a good thinker, Rebecca. What would you do?”
    â€œFirst of all, I would look at what we know. For instance, Daniel’s condition. What we’re sure of is that it’s touch-and-go.”
    Beth squeezed her eyes closed as if she were in pain.
    Rebecca jumped in. “But the doctors are hopeful.”
    Beth’s lids flitted open.
    â€œThat means Daniel has a good shot at recovering. So . . . we should be optimistic and do our utmost to ensure he has the best chance to make it.”
    â€œHow?”
    Rebecca pursed her lips in deep deliberation. “By focusing on prayer. By getting as many people as we can to pray for him.”
    As they walked quickly, Beth nodded. “I think we’re on top of it in that department. And according to our church friends, Doctor Stern is one of the best cardiologists in the U.S.”
    Rebecca raised a skeptical brow. “Friends?”
    â€œYes. He comes highly recommended by other physicians, too, and I’ve confirmed his credentials on several medical websites.”
    Rebecca nodded approval. She’d seen computers in the library and in businesses and knew what a website was. Rebecca was intrigued by the Internet and the tons of information it provided.
    â€œOkay. We’re confident in his doctor.”
    A long silence ensued as they walked. The midday heat made tar bubble on the narrow blacktop road, and they stepped to the side to avoid getting sticky black stuff on their shoes. The smell of freshly mowed grass in the ditches reminded Rebecca of home. An ache filled her gut.
    Rebecca’s brain cells worked in high gear as she struggled to remember everything she could about her cousin’s hospital stay. She recalled a nurse saying something about a patient’s attitude being the most important factor during the healing process.
    The tone of her voice was etched with a newfound enthusiasm. “Beth, we have to find away to help you deal with your stress. It can cause illness. Right now, Daniel needs you. He can’t afford for something to happen to you. Besides, if you’re worried, Daniel will know. I’m sure he senses your concern.”
    â€œTrue.”
    â€œIf you’re certain he’ll get well, he’ll pick up on that. When we visited my cousin in intensive care, one of the doctors told Mamma that a person’s recovery can be affected by their mental attitude. The power the mind has over the body is amazing.”
    The tense expression on Beth’s face finally relaxed a little, and Rebecca was relieved their conversation might finally produce results. A gentle breeze caressed Rebecca’s face. For a moment, she lifted her chin to enjoy the feel of the warm air.
    â€œYour mother must surely be one special lady. I’d like to meet her.”
    Rebecca smiled. “I’d like that too, Beth. I’m sure the two of you would be instant friends.”
    Beth gave a friendly nudge to Rebecca’s arm. “She must be proud of you. There’s nothing that makes a mom happier than raising a thoughtful child.”
    Rebecca’s heart warmed at that thought. “I think so. But she worries about me, too.”
    Beth’s eyes filled with surprise.
    Rebecca grinned. “She’s always told me I’m too bold. For an Amish girl, that is.”
    â€œIs that bad?”
    â€œI’m not sure. I try to please my parents. At the same time, I like to think for myself and make my own decisions. Sometimes, it’s hard to do both . . . if you know what I mean. I think the best thing for Daniel is to pray and have faith he’ll get well. Start making plans so he’ll have something to look forward to. What’s most important to him?”
    â€œUmm . . . Let me think.” Long moments passed as they walked side by side. A mosquito buzzed in front of Rebecca’s face, and she