In the last month we have done 5 funerals at church. This past weekend was for Jeff and Tami's son Thomas, 19 years old and hit by a car. No one makes it through life with a 'perfect score'. Thomas had his struggles, but we all have our gift…Thomas had a heart that cared and even in the depth of his dark valley he cared for others.
My friend Lucy died the other day of cancer. She 'fought the hard fight', but eventually chose when she had 'had enough'.
We just had a visit with Russ' neurologist. No miracles forthcoming, so we continue to bend and turn with the changes. It brings us astonishingly close to life's fragility, pummeling us. As we age and the lives of our family and friends whirl in the dance of life, my neon sign blazes the words… SAY 'I love you", 'You matter', 'I appreciate you', 'Thank you'.
I was blessed this week with a call or email from all my siblings, both kids, 1 grandchild and multiple friends. You all touch our lives and we are grateful. We love you. Thank you.
I have loved this song since I was a little girl...
"Simple Gifts"
by Joseph Brackett (1797–1882) a Shaker dancing song
'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free
'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,
'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,
And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,
Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,
'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free
'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,
'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",
And when we hear what others really think and really feel,
Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.