I spent several hours this afternoon at the bedside of my aunt, who took a fall last night and broke her hip. We don't know if surgery is an option or not, and we're waiting to see what happens. I was deeply touched to see her granddaughters gather around her hospital bed, just showing their love and support, wanting to do whatever they could to help her. Aunts and uncles came in and it was almost like a family reunion at the hospital.
This morning I sat in church and glanced behind me to see a new baby asleep in his father's arms. The baby was probably about two months old, with fat little cheeks, and he looked utterly content. He knew he was safe, he knew he was loved, and he was watched over and protected in his slumber.
Last June, I heard the news I never wanted to hear - my father has cancer. He's been on chemotherapy, but the doctors aren't holding out a great deal of hope. I count every minute as gold right now.
I can't help but think tonight about the cycle of life. We come into the world as helpless infants, completely dependent on our families for everything we have and for our every need. We are tiny, we are valuable, we are precious. Then as we grow up, each breath we take is a blessing. Our bodies, our ability to walk and talk - it's all a miracle. At the end of our lives, we have years of experiences to our credit, and we are every bit as precious as we were as infants. Our lives have impacted those around us. We have touched hearts through our words and actions.
I have been present at birth and at death. I consider each to be a sacred event, touched by the hands of angels bringing the new souls in and ushering the experienced souls out. Heaven draws very near to earth in those moments, reminding me that life is a gift, a treasure, and life is sacred.
I don't know what the outcome will be for my aunt, or for my dad. But I do know this - I will continue to cherish life every day. I will be grateful for each moment I get to spend with my loved ones. I will recognize the family ties that bind us together, wherever we may be, on this side of the veil or that one.
Life is truly a beautiful gift.
10 comments:
Life is precious. Cherish every moment. My dad taught me that when I was 7 and my son drove it home as a baby. You know how much time you have, so don't waste it on angry words, harbored grudges and distance.
Very nicely said.
Beautiful post, Tristi. I'm so sorry about your dad's diagnosis. I'll keep him and you in my prayers.
All I can think of to say is Amen.
This really strikes a cord with me. I've seen my parents die and my grandson come into the world. I, too, believe angels are closeby for each sacred event. Thanks for the beautiful post.
One of my favorite lines from a song is "Breathing comes in pairs, except for twice. One begins and one's goodbye."
Two of life's greatest moments happen in a breath.
It makes me so much more appreciative how God created families as He did.
God bless. I'm praying for you and your family.
Birth and death are two of the most spiritual things I've experienced.
They both have such a reverant feel to them. In birth, it is such a miracle and that first cry makes me cry everytime.
And although death is hard, it really makes us reflect on life and the plan.
I am always grateful for the knowledge we have. I would hate to lose a loved one and not know where they are or if I'd see them again. I can't imagine the pain. There is something comforting about knowing that their is more to life than just living.
So sorry to hear about your dad. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
And thanks for your touching thoughts.
Thank you, Tristi, for your beautiful words.
Beautiful. Thank you.
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