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Yesterday, I drove a relative to a major urban medical center for some specialized health care. We were there for most of the day, and there was a great deal of waiting involved. At one point, I saw a large family with a boy who reminded me a bit of Daniel, at least physically. He looked to be about ten, and his family had been to one of the clinics and were making their way through the maze that is the medical center, for the long trip home. The sprawling hospital complex is adjacent to a number of trains, and the boy wanted to go to see the trains. Of course, the boy should be able to take twenty minutes to see the trains come in and go out. Of course, the family wishes to get out of the city and have the bulk of their own long travel done before rush hour hits. So many times, we as adults, forget how fragile our lives and the lives of our children really are. So many times, we are embroiled in what we think is the real work of the world, when in fact, the stop and small the roses moments our family member needs, might be their last chance. The boy kept asking. Eventually, he said, "Can't we just look at the trains ?" They kept walking. I wanted to cry. I remembered in that moment, times when Daniel had exactly that tone. There were so many things he wished to do, and although we did some of them, there were many things as simple as trains at the medical center that were left for some future time, and then, of course, his future, and our own was simply suspended.
I am not suggesting we turn all of our children into indulged brats, but I am suggesting that when time is all you have to lose, that we hear their cries to do a particular thing, and try to make time when we can. Tomorrow might be too late.
Steven Curtis Chapman More to This Life
thank you for this excellent reminder, Jane. i have of late been thinking in a very similar way. i want to spend more time on the little things, like enjoying the tiny new flowers that are coming up in the yard, spending more time playing with the cats when they are in the mood. spend more time laughing and joking with jamie when we are working together. you are so right when you say that sometimes we confuse what is "real life", and if we don't stop to enjoy the moments, the special little moments like taking 20 minutes out to go and watch a little boy be excited by the trains - it is those times that we will regret later in life.
ReplyDeletei am feeling exceptionally melancholy as of late since our friend was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. he is part of our family and we, along with the rest of the community are doing everything possible to help him and his wife. but, we all know that we are going to lose him soon...and so many people here have lost so many family and friends, so we are picking up on their vibes. it's very sad, but we are all trying to do all that we can.
this is one of your most beautiful posts....maybe because of my mood. but it is a very beautiful post and that is really saying something as most of your posts are beautiful.
your friend,
kymber
Kymber, Thank you for the kind words. I don't know that we even need to be somber about this. I think we just need to enjoy each moment with those we care for, and indulge them in the small ways that they, and we, will always remember. Love to you and yours,
DeleteNo need to be somber at all, as long as you practice what you should be doing. GIVING instead of taking. HELPING instead of waiting to be helped. Asking "what can I do for you?" instead of "Can I have some of that?" When I can look back on the day and know I made someone smile, or gave of myself in any way possible, I end up feeling better for it.
ReplyDeleteWise words, from one of the kindest people, and best writers that I am honored to know !
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