This is a perfect topic for the first day of November. It is easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget what is most important. I have a friend who has helped me to remember that life should not be taken for granted. Her husband was diagnosed as an 18 year old with brain cancer. (He was not her husband at the time!) He miraculously beat it and was able to live another 22, service filled years before brain cancer eventually came back and took his life. He was an integral part of our little community and was involved in helping in so many ways. His wife is an equally strong amazing woman who I have truly enjoyed getting to know. One of the things she said really struck me. About 9 months ago she said, "I see all these marriages falling apart over petty differences and selfishness and I am doing everything in my power to hold onto mine." I keep this in my heart when I get upset about small things. Her husband used those "extra" 22 years to bring smiles to everyone around him. The stories that were told at his funeral sounded a lot like those used to describe my father. Somehow I can see that they might be joking around in heaven together, even though they didn't know each other here. :-)
We were able to take their family out boating about a week after the funeral. It was great to see all of them smiling and having a good time.
This month I also want to think about the things I am grateful for. Today it is:
1. Our health
2. A new day, a new start
3. A wonderful community to live in
2 comments:
Wait. I know then, right? Is that Declan (sp)? I forgot her name but I remember discussing her husband with her a long time ago. How sad for them.
Hey LCM, yep this is Declan. You probably knew them from the Y. They have had a lot of community and church support, but it has got to be tough. Alaina is in Dallin's class at school.
Hey, when are you coming to Portland again?
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