So, what sent me off on this tangent you ask? Bad news. A friend who has been ill for some months now was told this week that there is nothing more that can be done for her. It was difficult new for her and her family to hear, and it was equally as hard for her friends. We all know that we'll eventually die, but it's the part of life that we never think about.
I have known this woman and her family nearly all my life. She is a wonderful woman, and she raised a fine daughter basically by herself. Our families spent many summers together in New Hampshire. Easier, simpler times for sure. Pull into the campground on Friday night and spend the weekend or in some cases, the entire summer without worry. As the years passed and our lives changed our families saw less of each other, but there was always a bond, always a thought of them. Of course, with social media, we all re-connected and were able to keep up with each other. It's funny, I had a very good friend in the 7th grade (and now) who turned out to be her nephew. What a small, wonderful world.
My friend eventually met her soul mate and married him. He is a fantastic person. Watching him care for her is special to see. I visited last night at the hospital. She was in great spirits, and I got a big smile and a bigger hug. We talked for a bit, then her grandson came with her great-grandchildren for a visit. It was nice to see and feel the love in the room. I could tell it wasn't because of the situation, it was them, a true family. I'm certain that under different circumstances the love would be the same.
It was time for me to leave. More smiles, squeezes, and an I love you. I promised to see her again, and I will. I'll miss her when she goes, and my heart breaks for her very large family now. I know that she will fight to her last, surrounded by love, and I know she will be greatly missed.
Be strong my friend, with love from all of us.