I have had the privilege of writing a daily CaringBridge page for a dear friend of mine. In mid-November, I would have called this academic guru an acquaintance. But when I learned he was facing surgery, I offered to be a medical advocate for him and his wife. A few zoom meetings and some honest heart to heart conversations and I now consider them both to be dear friends.
As I have written his updates almost every day. I am committed to living authentically and it is essential to be honest when the challenging moments feel insurmountable and equally important when one feels on top of the moon after a therapy session.
I have begun to reflect on what if we all had a daily page. What if someone else was writing yours or mine. What would they notice about you or me, and what would they share honestly with others about what they observe or experience? As I have processed this thought, I have caught myself at times and shifted my tone or words or attitudes.
I am honored to be representing Phil and Marie’s journey on Phil’s CaringBridge page. I invite you to live with kindness, gratitude, integrity, and grit as you live each day of your life. As you can see in the video above, life does not have to be perfect to bring goodness to someone else. Life does not have to look like we think it should to love someone else well. Consider what you would like others to share about you and your journey, who is essential to you, and what brings you joy. Consider how you invite people into your vulnerable spaces, and do the words you speak match how your heart feels?
We have a lot of work to do in our world. We need to work hard to become a healthy and united Country. Let it begin within your own being and faithfully influence the people who surround you. We can do this, people, if we commit to caring deeply for one another!
Blessed Be His Name,
Trish