Author Ruth Smith Meyer

It's been a nice gradually warming spring. The daffodils,  tulips, lilac and other spring blooms lasted for days longer than they were able to in the past few years when we got a heat wave already in May--new life, springing up and gladdening our hearts. I often step outside my door and just breathe deep the taste and smell of spring.  The flowering pear we planted last year provided food for some hungry mice or moles who almost girdled it.  We wondered if it would survive as there was only about a quarter inch strip of bark providing the vital connection between the roots and branches.  But  it prevailed.  That tree blossomed and is putting forth new growth but the hydrangea we planted and which had no mice with which to contend did not.  

Niggling away at the corners of my mind and the center of my heart all spring, were concern for the two friends who have been fighting a valiant battle against the onslaught of ill health. It looks as thought they are winning, The cancer in one has been halted, the other is off the feeding tubes that sustained her for several months. Yet there are others who have fought just as valiantly who are now resting beneath the sod.

Last week, in five days, we attended three funerals.  One whose 87 year-old body had been in declining health for the last few years even while his spirit remained young and elastic and ever warmly interested in all he met.  His expectant granddaughter was there reminding us that life goes on.  A new little one will very soon replenish that family tree and his spirit lives on in his family. 

The next was an octegenarian as well, but still actively involved in life and service. In spite of his age, he was in good health and had plans for more travel this summer. His family and friends spoke of how important his presence was to them.

The third who had also reached the three-score years and ten was also a vital part of his family and neighbourhood.   He had just helped to celebrate his mother's 90th birthday.  He too, was an important part of his children and grandchildren's lives.

This week also held some birthday celebrations,  a renewal of a friendship of long-standing, a satisfying visit with a sister I don't often see.

It's all a part of life--just as the seasons of the year.  When death touches us though, we often pause to consider what is really important.  To me, knowing that LIFE is my destiny even after death, it frees me to concentrate on the next most important--relationships and as I heard someone say recently , taking as many as I can, with me to enjoy everlasting life.