Sunday, September 25, 2011

Life & Death


Monica: Two friends called today with different kinds of big news, in different states of shock. One was recently diagnosed with breast cancer; the other discovered she is pregnant. "Game changers" are the order of the day.  One friend is suddenly facing her own mortality; the other is wrapping her head around the joy and responsibility of bringing a new life into the world. I recognize each friend's vulnerability in her situation and I send prayers of protection, nurturing, and good health to both of them. It's a strange mix of compassion, joy, concern, and hope that I feel right now. I feel a little vulnerable, too, knowing that my own life could change quite unexpectedly at any time. This is what it means to be alive, I suppose. We are all free-falling toward a mystery. It's breathtaking and scary as hell and all we can really do is let go and try to enjoy the ride.

Evelyn: Before leaving town the Ripley's Museum was top on the agenda to explore, filled with all kinds of oddities and history, something I have always found fun. Between pirates and shrunken heads, I got my fill of playful discovery and discussion, often tying right back into the weekend chatter and camaraderie.  I would rather think about pirates in the 1500's than the politics of my life right now. I couldn't have appreciated the break more.

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