I have an older friend that isn't long for this world, and I treasure every moment I am in his presence. Papa Tom (as all of us call him), has lived a long life, a life of which he has no regrets. In his many years he has experienced everything from war, to the everlasting love of a wonderful woman, who passed away some years ago. He has a family and friends that love him, and take good care of him. Tom's body is telling him it's time to slow down, yet, he is still out there dancing with us "young" folks refusing for anyone to call him "sir" (even though he more than deserves the respect of that word, over and over again).
I was talking with Tom tonight, and it was the first time I noticed a tired look in his eyes. He has gone through a couple rounds of treatment for cancer, and has another to endure at the end of this month. There is no doubt that he will keep living the fullest life he can, as long as he can, which I respect and admire in him. He is an example of courage, and optimism, and I am inspired by his tenacity. I hug him and tell him how much I enjoy dancing with him, how good it is to see him. I mean it with all my heart.
Papa Tom and I
It's hard for anyone to know what we go through in our lives. What our days are like, and who has influenced the filters with which we view the world, and the people in it. I am going to try to be more aware of our fragility. More compassionate with myself, and others, when dealing with loss. Whether the loss of mortality, or the loss of friendships of those who are living. Change is constant, and I want to be careful not to confuse the two. Change is just simply, that - change. Loss is something felt deeply in the heart, something that effects our spirit, something that only patience, compassion, and time can heal.
No comments:
Post a Comment