It is easy to see the sadness, despair, and worry in everyday life . . . and yet, our world is also filled with joy and wonder that inspire a deep sense of gratitude and hope.
I was very grateful to come together with my family, to lovingly celebrate my mom’s 97th birthday, and to share it with my partner Francesco, who sang and danced with her. Mom was beaming! And a few days later, I got to meet my 1 ½ year old niece, who inspires such hope and joy through her innocence and wonder as she discovers the world around her. One of the most delightful encounters was when this little one, who is never shown a TV or phone screen, happened to walk down the hallway and discover a little being in the full-length mirror. “Hi Baby!”, she said, as she twice lifted the empty box she was carrying on her head in greeting! Adorable! And it was so awesome to be a part of celebrating two people I love in the early and later stages of life, with equal parts of joy and wonder.
It was also wonderful on this same visit to be with my dear childhood friend, Barb, who was celebrating her last chemo treatment and amazingly, still walking at least 5 miles every day, and volunteering to bring meals to the elderly in their homes.
Friendships, old and new, can offer such comfort, encouragement and support. Several days ago, a gathering of our women’s group met under a full harvest moon, to share what the year has brought to each of our lives. Whether dealing with the loss of a partner, rebuilding the damage to one’s home after a hurricane, the loss of a job, or celebrating another year cancer-free, it is a sisterhood that continues to be a joy and a blessing.
It can be easy to feel alone in these uncertain and sometimes harsh times, and yet, we can choose to share and witness and reach out so that each feels seen, heard and supported. Adie Rubin is a friend with a huge heart, who finds unique ways to help others. She shared: “When I heard of a cold snap coming, I was concerned.” So, she went to some thrift stores and purchased a bunch of men’s and women’s jackets (and sent notices to friends in case they chose to contribute). Her plan is to go to the bus depot, a homeless gathering place, as well as to a local shelter, and to hand out clothes not only for their warmth, but to let them know that people care.
There is so much to feel a sense of wonder about . . . the setting sun that has seen us through another day, the morning light that makes us happy to be alive, to still be here and able to share the essence of who we are with each other.
Each friend or loved one’s passing reminds us of how blessed we are to have had such love in our lives and to honor them by sharing our compassion and caring for each other and whomever is brought into our path.
May this truly be a time of ‘Thanks giving’ for each day, each opportunity to express our appreciation for this gift of life. Please know how grateful I am to share with you, and to wish you and your loved ones a renewal of wonder and joy in this holiday season.
Many blessings,
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