I spent today in the hospital while my Aunt had surgery.
There is something about eight hours in the surgical waiting room that gives life perspective. It was an interesting day as I watched people come and go and respond to information shared by doctors….
I was thinking about how with each interaction I observed, I was left to wonder and fill in the blanks of what I thought might be unfolding. I find it fascinating to watch interactions of people and often guard against trying to figure their situation out but instead wonder about they mystery of the unknown…
At the end of the day, I was on the Oncology floor and the feeling is very different. There are many patients walking the floor attached to IV poles administering chemo. Some bodies appear frail and tired. Others walk the halls or watch the Olympics and the only sign that they are battling cancer is their smooth bald head…
I find that I prefer the mystery of the unknown story in the surgical waiting room as opposed to the reality that is evident on the Oncology floor. And yet I am reminded of my Aunt whose story, even with cancer, is anchored in hope. I am reminded of her short hair which speaks of life after chemo. I am reminded that she is much more than her diagnosis and disease. I am reminded to see beyond the IV poles and bald heads and remember the Oncology floor is not only a place of stories that hold sadness but stories of men and women who live their lives with bravery and courage.
I could simply feel sorry for each patient I encounter, but somehow that doesn’t seem good for me or honoring for them…
I want to bring kindness to each person I encounter while visiting my aunt over the next five days.
I want to allow my eyes to meet theirs and share a moment of connection….
I want to remember that life is a gift and each of us lives with the reality that our days are numbered…(All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
(Psalm 139:16))
Tonight it is my hope, that in sickness or in health…I want to live well!
